Infant simulator

ABSTRACT

An infant simulator capable of emulating the care requirements of an infant and recording the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator and/or signaling the person caring for the infant simulator when care is required. The infant simulator is capable of (i) sensing the environmental conditions of position, temperature and compression to which the infant simulator is subjected, and (ii) periodically demanding that the care-provider change the diaper, rock the infant, feeding the infant, or burp the infant simulator. The infant simulator is also programmed with the ancillary features of providing positive feedback when the proper interaction is provided in a timely fashion, an escalating demand signal when the proper interaction is not provided in a timely fashion, an identification system requiring the assigned care-provider to be present in order to satisfy a demand event, an unsatisfiable fussy period, and multiple behavior modes (i.e., differences in the frequency of the demand events and/or the duration of the demand events).

[0001] This is a divisional of application Ser. No. 08/986,835 filedDec. 8, 1997, now pending.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention broadly relates to the field of simulated childcare. More specifically, the invention relates to infant simulators usedin educational programs for educating prospective parents about therealities of parenthood, assisting in the education and training ofpersonnel entering the child-care profession, and assisting in thecontinuing education of persons working in the child-care profession.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Teen-age pregnancy is an ever increasing problem. Teen-ageparents, surveyed as to why they elected to have a baby, gave suchreasons as “babies are so cute,” “I wanted attention,” and “I neededsomeone to love and love me back.” Such romantic feelings toward havinga baby almost never include an understanding of the responsibilitiesimposed by a baby, including loss of sleep, loss of freedom, the needfor constant attention, etc. Attempts to educate teen-agers about thetrials and tribulations of caring for an infant and raising a child,using the traditional educational methods of lecture and readings, arerarely successful.

[0004] Some resourceful educators, realizing that traditionaleducational methods are inadequate, have attempted to demonstrate thecare requirements of an infant by requiring students to carry a sack offlour, an egg or a plant for several days. While somewhat exemplary ofthe care requirements of an infant, such programs do not fairlyrepresent the care requirements of an actual infant and have proven tobe of limited success.

[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 3,190,038 issued to Kardon, 3,490,170 issued toWolf, 3,514,899 issued to Bonanno et al., 4,115,948 issued to Burks and5,094,644 issued to Kelley describe dolls that will wet a diaper afterbeing fed from a bottle. The dolls described in Kardon and Wolf eachinclude electrical circuitry capable of initiating crying when a diaperon the doll is sufficiently wetted after being fed from a bottle, andterminating such crying upon removal of the wetted diaper. Similarly,the doll described in Bonanno et al. further includes electricalcircuitry capable of initiating crying when the doll is diapered and abottle is removed from the mouth of the doll, and terminating suchcrying by removing the diaper from the doll. Such dolls are not usefulfor educating students about the trials and tribulations of caring foran infant as the feeding and wetting cycle, with or without crying, isunder control of the user. The student, unless under constantsupervision by an educator, can feed and change the doll on a scheduleselected by the student. In addition, the dolls do not accuratelysimulate the care requirements of an actual infant in that the studentis not instructed by the doll to replace the wetted diaper with a drydiaper to terminate crying.

[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,249,338 issued to Wexler discloses a doll whichemits a crying sound when a manually operated switch is actuated. Theuser must then determine which of several switches, labeled with suchactions as feeding, diaper changing or back patting, will turn off thecrying sound. While interesting as a plaything, this doll suffers fromthe same drawback as the “feed and wet” dolls in that activation ofcrying is under control of the user. The student, unless under constantsupervision by an educator, can activate crying on a schedule selectedby the student.

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 4,451,911 issued to Klose et al. discloses a dollwhich can operate in two different modes. In a first mode, the dollemits different sounds based upon which of several switches, located atvarious positions on the body of the doll, is actuated (e.g., actuationof the mouth switch produced “yum-yum,” while actuation of the backswitch produces “aahh”). In a second mode the doll emits a sound and theuser must then determine which of the switches will turn off the cryingsound and produce a satisfaction signal, such as “mommy.” The user candeactivate the doll by pressing a specified switch on the doll or simplyfailing to activate the proper switch within a given time period. Again,while interesting as a plaything, this doll suffers from the samedrawback as the “feed and wet” dolls in that activation and deactivationof the doll is under control of the user. The student, unless underconstant supervision by an educator, can activate and deactivate thedoll on a schedule selected by the student.

[0008] A particularly useful infant simulator system for use ineducating students about the care requirements of an infant is describedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,443,388 issued to Jurmain et al. and assigned to theassignee of this application. The patent discloses an infant simulatorcapable of crying at intervals, with the crying continuing until aquieting key is inserted into the infant simulator and continuously heldin position against a biasing means for a defined time period. Thecrying schedule may be changed to simulate either a healthy or a sickinfant. A trembler may be included to cause the infant to shake atintervals for purposes of simulating a drug-dependent infant. The infantsimulator can also include indicators showing rough handling, improperpositioning and the detection of a loud sound. The quieting key mayinclude a means for securing the key to an assigned individual.

[0009] While the infant simulator described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,443,388and sold under the trademark BABY THINK IT OVER® has proven extremelyuseful as an educational tool, a continuing need exists for an improvedinfant simulator capable of realistically demonstrating the variety ofneeds and care requirements of an infant, as well as the positiveaspects of caring for and loving an infant.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The infant simulator includes a variety of features designed toemulate the care requirements of an infant. The infant simulator can bedesigned and programmed with any combination of the described features,including the ability the selectively activate and deactivate individualfeatures for each assignment period. The infant simulator is equipped torecord the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for theinfant simulator and/or signal the person caring for the infantsimulator when care is required.

[0011] The features can be conveniently grouped into the categories of(i) environmental condition sensors, (ii) episodic events, and (iii)ancillary features.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

[0012] Temperature Sensor

[0013] Infants should not be exposed to temperature extremes. The infantsimulator can be equipped with a temperature sensor capable of sensingthe environmental temperatures to which the infant simulator is exposed.

[0014] In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is further equippedwith a system for recording the sensed temperature. In a secondembodiment, the infant simulator is further equipped with a system forgenerating a perceptible thermal exposure signal when the sensedtemperature falls above or below a defined acceptable temperature range.A preferred embodiment combines both the recording and signaling systemsso that the person caring for the infant simulator is advised when theenvironmental temperature has reached an unacceptable level and therecorded information can be reviewed by a teacher or administrator uponcompletion of the assignment.

[0015] Compression Sensor

[0016] Infants must be handled with care at all times and should neverbe squeezed. One of the more prevalent abuses results when a frustratedcare provider squeezes the infant, usually the infants arm, leg or head.The infant simulator can be equipped with a compression sensor capableof sensing compression of the infant simulator.

[0017] In a first embodiment, the infant simulator is further equippedwith a system for recording the sensed compression. In a secondembodiment, the infant simulator is further equipped with a system forgenerating a perceptible distress signal when compression is sensed. Apreferred embodiment combines both the recording and signaling systemsso that the person caring for the infant simulator is immediatelynotified that they have injured the infant simulator and the recordedinformation can be reviewed by a teacher or administrator uponcompletion of the assignment.

EPISODIC EVENTS

[0018] Diaper Change

[0019] Infants require periodic diaper changes. A realistic simulationof a diaper change should include the actual changing of a diaper. Byrequiring the “soiled” diaper to be removed and a new diaper placed uponthe infant simulator, the person caring for the infant simulator learnsthat you must carry an extra diaper at all times, and gains a morecomplete understanding of the requirements of an actual diaper change(e.g., a person carrying the infant simulator into a restaurant would,assuming some level of modesty and etiquette, take the infant simulatorto the rest room to change the diaper).

[0020] The infant simulator can be equipped with (i) a system forgenerating a perceptible soiled-diaper signal, (ii) a system incommunication with the soiled-diaper signal generating system forarresting the soiled-diaper signal in response to receipt of adiaper-changed signal, and (iii) a diaper configured and arranged to befitted over the lower torso of the infant simulator as a diaper, withthe diaper having a means effective for transmitting the diaper-changedsignal to the soiled-diaper signal arresting system when the diaper isfitted on the infant simulator.

[0021] The infant simulator can further be equipped with a system formeasuring and recording the duration of each diaper-change episode(i.e., the time period between initiation of the perceptiblesoiled-diaper signal and completion of a diaper change effective fortransmitting the diaper-changed signal.)

[0022] Rocking

[0023] Infants often like to be gently rocked. Parents and other careproviders will often rock an infant when the infant is fidgety or fussy,or when the person simply wants to comfort the infant. A realisticsimulation of rocking should require actual rocking of the infantsimulator.

[0024] The infant simulator can be equipped with (i) a system forgenerating a perceptible rocking-request signal, and (ii) a system incommunication with the rocking-request signal generating system fordetecting rocking of the infant simulator and arresting therocking-request signal when rocking is detected.

[0025] The infant simulator can further be equipped with a system formeasuring and recording the duration of each rocking-request episode(i.e., the time period between initiation of the perceptiblerocking-request signal and the commencement of rocking.)

[0026] Feeding with Burp

[0027] Infants must be regularly fed. A realistic simulation of afeeding should require both feeding and burping of the infant simulator.In order to accurately emulate a feeding, the infant simulator can beequipped with both a feeding-request module and a burping-requestmodule, with the burping-request module requiring actual patting of theinfant simulator.

[0028] The feeding module can include (i) a system for generating aperceptible feeding-request signal, (ii) a system in communication withthe feeding-request signal generating system for arresting thefeeding-request signal in response to receipt of a feeding signal, (iii)a device for transmitting the feeding signal to the feeding-requestsignal arresting system when placed in communicative proximity to theinfant simulator and thereby arresting the feeding-request signal.

[0029] The burping-request module can include (i) a system forgenerating a perceptible burping-request signal, (ii) a system forinitiating generation of the burping-request signal in communicationwith both the feeding-request module and the burping-request signalgenerating system for initiating generation of the burping-requestsignal after the feeding signal is received by the feeding-requestmodule, and (iii) a system in communication with the burping-requestsignal generating system for detecting patting of the doll and arrestingthe burping-request signal when patting is detected.

[0030] The infant simulator can further be equipped with a means forindividually or separately measuring and recording the duration of eachfeeding-request episode and each burping-request episode (i.e., the timeperiod between initiation of the perceptible feeding-request signal andthe commencement of feeding for a feeding-request episode, and the timeperiod between initiation of the perceptible burping-request signal andthe commencement of patting for a burping-request episode.)

[0031] Fussy and Demand Event

[0032] Infants will occasionally fuss for one reason or another and,despite every effort by the parent or other care-provider, cannot becomforted. In such situations, the infant tends to continue fussinguntil the unknown cause of the fussing dissipates of its own accord. Inorder to accurately emulate the frustration encountered by parents andother care-providers in such situations, the infant simulator can beequipped with a demand module (e.g., a diaper-change module, a rockingmodule, a feeding module, etc.) and a fussing module, wherein only thedemand module is capable of being satisfied.

[0033] The demand module can include (i) a system for generating aperceptible demand signal, (ii) a system in communication with thedemand signal generating system for arresting the demand signal inresponse to receipt of a satisfaction signal, and (iii) a device fortransmitting the satisfaction signal to the demand signal arrestingsystem when placed in communicative proximity to the infant simulatorand thereby arresting the demand signal.

[0034] The fussing module can include (i) a system for generating aperceptible fussing signal, (ii) a fussing interval timer incommunication with the fussing signal generating system for initiatinggeneration of the fussing signal at intervals; and (iii) a fussingduration timer in communication with the fussing signal generatingsystem for terminating generation of the fussing signal at the end of afussing period.

[0035] Since the fussing module does not include a system capable ofarresting the fussing signal, the fussing signal will necessarilycontinue until the end of the fussing period regardless of the actionsof the parent or other care-provider.

ANCILLARY FEATURES

[0036] The features described below are labeled as ancillary featuresbecause they function to enhance performance of an infant simulatorexhibiting at least one type of a demand event. For practical purposes,the disclosed ancillary features are operable in combination with any ofthe demand modules disclosed herein (i.e., diaper-change, rocking,feeding with burp, and fussing with demand event) as well as any otherdemand module requiring the parent or other care-provider to provide theinfant simulator with a satisfaction signal.

[0037] As utilized herein, including the claims the phrase “demandmodule” references a module which includes at least (i) a means forgenerating a perceptible demand signal, and (ii) a means incommunication with the demand signal generating means for arresting thedemand signal in response to receipt of a satisfaction signal. As ageneral matter, a “demand module” signals a care-provider that some typeof interaction is required between the care-provider and the infant, andarrests the signal when the required interaction is provided.

[0038] Contented Signal Feature

[0039] The responsibility of caring for an infant can engender thecontrasting emotions of fulfillment and frustration. A realisticsimulation of caring for an infant should include events emulating boththe positive and negative aspects of caring for an infant.

[0040] The infant simulator can be equipped with a contented conditionmodule which, in combination with a demand module, for providingpositive feedback to the person caring for the infant simulator whenproper care is provided. The contented module can include (i) a systemfor generating a perceptible contented signal, and (ii) a system incommunication with the demand module and the perceptible contentedsignal generating system for initiating generation of the contentedsignal after a satisfaction signal has been received by the demandmodule.

[0041] Escalating Demand Signal Feature

[0042] Infants can provide a variety of perceptible signals to parentsand other care-provides requesting that a need be satisfied. While themost common signal is crying, other signals include fidgeting, fussing,gasping, repeated side-to-side shaking of the head, rubbing of the eyesand face, and whining. In addition, infants will usually escalate thesignal over time when the need remains unsatisfied. Hence, a realisticsimulation of caring for an infant should provide for an escalation inthe strength, intensity and/or severity of a demand signal as the demandremains unsatisfied over time.

[0043] An infant simulator having a demand module can be furtherequipped with a system in communication with the demand module forescalating the perceptible demand signal generated by the demand signalgenerating system as the duration of the demand episode increases.

[0044] Identification System Feature

[0045] In order for a student to fully appreciate the responsibility ofcaring for an infant, and for a teacher to provide meaningful feedbackto the student, it is important that the student to whom the infantsimulator is assigned tend to the demands of the infant simulator. Inother words, it is important that the infant simulator be equipped withsome type of system which requires the assigned student to tend to theneeds of the infant simulator, or at least be present when the dutiesare discharged.

[0046] For purposes of ensuring that the assigned care-provider is atleast present when the demands of the infant simulator are beingsatisfied as required by the demand module, the infant simulator can beequipped with an identification feature including at least, (i) a systemfor receiving an identification signal personal to the assignedcare-provider, and (ii) a system in communication with theidentification-signal receiving system and the demand module effectivefor preventing arresting of the demand signal until the identificationsignal is received by the identification-signal receiving system.

[0047] Multiple Behavior Modes Feature

[0048] Infants have different care requirements. Some infants will sleepfor several hours at night, while others will wake almost every hour andrequire some type of attention. In order to emulate the different carerequirements of different infants, the infant simulator can be equippedto permit a teacher or administrator to select between several programswhich require different levels of care. These different levels of carecan be produced by altering the time interval between events (i.e.,increase or decrease the number of events occurring within an assignmentperiod) and/or altering the duration of each event (i.e., increase ordecrease the length of each period). The different levels of care can beset to represent the care requirements of an easy, an average and adifficult infant, thereby allowing the teacher or administrator totailor the simulation to each specific student.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the infantsimulator including one embodiment of an identification key and tamperindicating bracelet.

[0050]FIGS. 2a- 2 j are a flowchart of one embodiment of the infantsimulator.

[0051]FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the infant simulatorshown in FIG. 1, showing one embodiment of the internal electricalcomponents of the infant simulator.

[0052]FIGS. 4a is a perspective view of one embodiment of a first diaperfor use in combination with the infant simulator for transmitting adiaper-change satisfaction signal.

[0053]FIGS. 4b is a perspective view of a portion of one embodiment of asecond diaper for use in combination with the infant simulator fortransmitting a diaper-change satisfaction signal.

[0054] FIGS. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a bottle foruse in combination with the infant simulator for transmitting afeeding-request satisfaction signal.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION INCLUDING A BEST MODE

[0055] Definitions

[0056] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “activated,”when used to describe the condition of an infant simulator, means that(i) at least one of the environmental sensors and associated means forrecording the sensed environmental variable are sensing and recording(e.g., environmental temperature or compression), and/or (ii) at leastone of the episodic demand events is capable of occurring at any time orthe time interval to such occurrence is being timed (e.g.,diaper-change, feeding, or fussy event).

[0057] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “arrested,”when used to describe the condition of a perceptible signal generatingmeans, means that the perceptible signal is no longer expressed andincludes both termination of the signal (i.e., the perceptible signalwill not be generated until reinitiated by the occurrence of a definedcondition or event) and inhibition of the signal (i.e., the perceptiblesignal will be expressed upon the removal or cessation of a specificcondition or event).

[0058] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “assignmentperiod,” means the period of time during which the infant simulator isactivated and the assigned person or team is given custody of the infantsimulator (e.g., overnight, 48 hours, one week, etc.).

[0059] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase“burping-request episode,” refers to the event of burping the infantsimulator in reaction to a demand signal from the doll indicating adesire to be burped. Each burping-request episode, from the perspectiveof a care provider, begins when a perceptible burping-request signal isinitiated and ends when patting of the infant simulator is commenced. Itis noted for purposes of clarity that this definition is not intended tomandate the specific signal received by the burping-request episodeduration measuring means for initiating the timing of a burping-requestepisode (e.g., timing of a burping-request episode can be initiated by asignal emanating from the burping-request interval timer or a signalgenerated by the perceptible burping-request signal generating means),nor specify the particular sequence by which an electrical signal musttravel through the burping-request module (e.g., the burping-requestmodule may be configured and arranged so that the burping-requestepisode duration measuring means receives a signal to start timing aburping-request episode before, after or simultaneously with the receiptof a corresponding signal by the perceptible burping-request signalgenerating means).

[0060] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “elevatedcompression,” means compression of a magnitude such that discomfort orinjury would normally be inflicted upon an actual infant. Compressionhaving a magnitude insufficient to be classified as an “elevatedcompression” include specifically, but not exclusively, a compressionresulting from such routine activities as bathing, patting to elicit aburp, ordinary handling, hugging, lying on a carpeted floor, rubbing ofthe stomach, light tickling, etc.

[0061] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “compressionepisode,” means the time period beginning when compression is sensed andending when compression is no longer sensed.

[0062] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “continuous,”when used in connection with the demand event of feeding the doll, meansthat the feeding signal transmitting means (e.g., a bottle) is held incommunicative position relative to the doll by a care provider so as totransmit the feeding signal to the feeding-request system (e.g., thebottle is inserted into the mouth of the doll) without release of thefeeding signal transmitting means by the care provider for anyappreciable time period (i.e., from a fraction of a second up to as longas about five seconds).

[0063] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “continuous,”when used in connection with the demand event of rocking the doll, meansthat the doll is subjected to appropriate levels of accelerative motionwithout stop or separated only by stationary periods of modest duration(i.e., from a fraction of a second up to as long as about five seconds).

[0064] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “continuous,”when used in connection with the recording of temperature values, meansthat the temperature is recorded on a predetermine schedule (e.g., everynanosecond, every second, every ten seconds, every two minutes, etc.)without interruption.

[0065] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “demandepisode,” refers to an event requiring a specified interaction betweenthe doll and a care-provider in response to a signal from the doll thatsuch an interaction is desired. Each demand episode, from theperspective of a care provider, begins when a perceptible demand signalis initiated by the doll and ends when an appropriate satisfactionsignal or action is transmitted to the doll in response to the demandsignal. Exemplary, demand episodes include specifically, but notexclusively, diaper-change episodes, feeding-request episodes,burping-request episodes and rocking-request episodes.

[0066] As utilized herein, including the claims the phrase “demandmodule” references a module which includes at least (i) a means forgenerating a perceptible demand signal, and (ii) a means incommunication with the demand signal generating means for arresting thedemand signal in response to receipt of a satisfaction signal. As ageneral matter, a “demand module” signals a care-provider that some typeof interaction is required between the care-provider and the infant, andarrests the signal when the required interaction is provided.

[0067] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “demandperiod,” means the period of time during which the demand signal will begenerated and expressed by the doll unless a satisfaction signal oraction is being received by the doll. Exemplary, demand periods includespecifically, but not exclusively, diaper-change periods,feeding-periods, burping periods and rocking periods.

[0068] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase“diaper-change episode,” refers to the event of changing the doll'sdiaper in response to a signal from the doll that the diaper is soiled.Each diaper-change episode, from the perspective of a care provider,begins when a perceptible soiled-diaper signal is initiated and endswhen a changed-diaper signal is transmitted. It is noted for purposes ofclarity that this definition is not intended to mandate the specificsignal received by the diaper-change module for initiating orterminating the timing of a diaper-change episode (e.g., timing of adiaper-change episode can be initiated by a signal emanating from thediaper-change interval timer or a signal generated by the perceptiblesoiled-diaper signal generating means), nor specify the particularsequence by which an electrical signal must travel through thediaper-change module (e.g., the diaper-change module may be configuredand arranged so that the diaper-change duration timer receives a signalto start timing a diaper-change episode before, after or simultaneouslywith the receipt of a corresponding signal by the perceptiblesoiled-diaper signal generating means).

[0069] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “distressperiod,” when used in connection with the generation of a distresssignal, means a time period of predetermined duration or bounded randomduration beginning immediately or shortly after sensing of acompression. When the end of a distress period is measured fromcommencement of a compression episode, the distress period should beselected so as to have a longer duration than any anticipatedcompression episode (e.g., a minimum distress period of 15 seconds whentypical compression episodes measured at 5 to 10 seconds) in order toavoid an anomalous situation in which the distress period (i.e., thedistress signal) ends before the compression episode (i.e., exertion ofthe compressive force upon the infant simulator) ends. Alternatively,when the end of a distress period is measured from termination of acompression episode, the distress period may have any desired durationsince the distress period, by definition, cannot end before thecompression episode ends.

[0070] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “doll” means afigure representative of a human being and including at least a portionrepresenting a head and a portion representing a torso. The figure ispreferably shaped as an infant and includes arms and legs. Otherphysical features can be represented as desired, including specifically,but not exclusively, hair, eyes, eye lashes, eyebrows, ears, nose,mouth, hands, fingers, fingernails, areolae, bellybutton, genitalia,feet, toes, toenails, skin pigmentation, and physical deformities.

[0071] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “feedingperiod,” means the period of time during which the feeding-requestsignal will be generated and expressed unless the appropriatesatisfaction signal (i.e., a feeding signal) is being continuouslyprovided.

[0072] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase“feeding-request episode,” refers to the event of feeding the doll inreaction to a demand signal from the doll indicating a desire to be fed.Each feeding-request episode, from the perspective of a care provider,begins when a perceptible feeding-request signal is initiated and endswhen feeding is commenced. It is noted for purposes of clarity that thisdefinition is not intended to mandate the specific signal received bythe feeding-request module for initiating or arresting the timing of afeeding-request episode (e.g., timing of a feeding-request episode canbe initiated by a signal emanating from the feeding-request intervaltimer or a signal generated by the perceptible feeding-request signalgenerating means), nor specify the particular sequence by which anelectrical signal must travel through the feeding-request module (e.g.,the feeding-request module may be configured and arranged so that thefeeding-request duration timer receives a signal to start timing afeeding-request episode before, after or simultaneously with the receiptof a corresponding signal by the perceptible feeding-request signalgenerating means).

[0073] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “infant”refers to a young human being ranging in age from a newborn, including apremature newborn, to an approximately one year old child.

[0074] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “key” refersto any device configured and arranged to fit within and communicate witha complementary keyhole, including specifically, but not exclusively apasskey of specified configuration, a card having holes in a specifiedpattern, a card bearing information on a magnetic strip, a magnet ofspecified strength and configuration, etc.

[0075] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase“predetermined value” means a specific value (e.g., 10 minutes) andincludes both permanently assigned values (e.g., a duration period whichis always 10 minutes) and values assigned for an assignment period andcapable of being reassigned for subsequent assignment periods (e.g., atime interval predetermined at the start of an assignment period as 2, 5or 7 minutes).

[0076] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “randomvariable” is used in accordance with the dictionary definition of randomvariable (i.e., a variable that is a function of the result of astatistical experiment in which each outcome has a definite probabilityof occurrence, such as the number of spots showing if two dice arethrown). The phrase “bounded random variable” means that the randomvariable must fall within defined minimum and maximum values (i.e., thevariable must greater than 0 and less than 13.)

[0077] As utilized herein, including the claims, the term “restricted”means limited access, with access generally achievable only upon theexercise of intentional and deliberate actions directed toward theobjective of achieving such access (e.g., removing a machine screw,cutting a closure band, entering an access code, removing a tamperindicating label, etc.).

[0078] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “rockingperiod,” means the period of time during which the rocking-requestsignal will be generated and expressed unless the doll is continuouslyrocked.

[0079] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase“rocking-request episode,” refers to the event of rocking the doll inreaction to a demand signal from the doll indicating a desire to berocked. Each rocking-request episode, from the perspective of a careprovider, begins when a perceptible rocking-request signal is initiatedand ends when rocking is commenced. It is noted for purposes of claritythat this definition is not intended to mandate the specific signalreceived by the rocking-request module for initiating or arresting thetiming of a rocking-request episode (e.g., timing of a rocking-requestepisode can be initiated by a signal emanating from the rocking-requestinterval timer or a signal generated by the perceptible rocking-requestsignal generating means), nor specify the particular sequence by whichan electrical signal must travel through the rocking-request module(e.g., the rocking-request module may be configured and arranged so thatthe rocking-request duration timer receives a signal to start timing arocking-request episode before, after or simultaneously with the receiptof a corresponding signal by the perceptible rocking-request signalgenerating means).

[0080] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrases “adjustingthe potential duration of a period,” and “adjusting the potentialduration of a time interval” means changing the probability ofoccurrence such that a longer or shorter duration is more likely tooccur. Such adjustment can occur by (i) changing one or both of theendpoints of the time range from which the duration of the period orinterval can be selected (e.g., a change from a 10 to20 minute timerange to a 10 to 50 minute time range or a change from a 10 to 20 minutetime range to a 40 to 50 minute time range), and/or (ii) changing thestatistical preference for a time value within a defined time range(e.g., a change from a 10 to20 minute time range with a 40% chance ofselecting a duration of 15 to 20 minutes to a 10 to20 minute time rangewith an 80% chance of selecting a duration of 15 to 20 minutes).

[0081] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “perceptiblesignal” means any and all means of communication capable of conveyingnotice or warning to a care provider, including specifically, but notexclusively audible signals (e.g., crying), olfactory signals (e.g.,emission of odorous gas), tactile signals (e.g., wet diaper), visualsignals (e.g., gesture), and multimedia signals (e.g., crying andtears).

[0082] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase“substantially identical signals,” refers to signals perceived by thesame sense (e.g., audible signals) and of the same general type (e.g.,crying sound, shaking body, floral smell, etc.) with some aspect of thesignals perceptibly different (e.g., different pitch, different rate,different intervals between repetitions, different volumes, etc.).

[0083] As utilized herein, including the claims, the phrase “thermalexposure episode,” means the time period beginning when a sensedtemperature falls outside a defined acceptable temperature range andending when a subsequently sensed temperature falls within the definedacceptable temperature range.

[0084] Nomenclature

[0085]05 Infant Simulator

[0086]10 Doll

[0087]11 Head

[0088]12 Torso

[0089]13 Arms

[0090]14 Legs

[0091]16 Back of Doll

[0092]20 Central Microcontroller Unit

[0093]21 Tamper Indicating Label

[0094]30 Position Sensor

[0095]40 Temperature Sensor

[0096]50 Compression Sensing System

[0097]51 Electrical Circuit

[0098]51 a First Contact

[0099]51 b Second Contact

[0100]60 Diaper

[0101]60 a First Diaper

[0102]60 b Second Diaper

[0103]61 Magnet Attached to Diaper

[0104]62 Diaper-Change Switches

[0105]62 a First Diaper-Change Switch

[0106]62 b Second Diaper-Change Switch

[0107]70 Motion Sensor (Rocking, Burping and Abuse)

[0108]80 Bottle

[0109]80 n Nipple of Bottle

[0110]81 Magnet Attached to Bottle

[0111]82 Feed Switch

[0112]90 Identification Key

[0113]91 Tamper Indication Bracelet

[0114]100 Initiation Module

[0115]110 Position Sensing Module

[0116]120 Temperature Sensing Module

[0117]130 Compression Sensing Module

[0118]140 Diaper-Change Module

[0119]150 Rocking Module

[0120]160 Feeding Module

[0121]170 Burping Module

[0122]180 Fussy Module

[0123]190 Assignment Period Module

[0124]210 Demand Signal Generating Feature

[0125]220 Recording Feature

[0126]230 Contented Signal Feature

[0127]240 Escalating Demand Signal Feature

[0128]250 Identification System Feature

[0129]260 Multiple Time Interval Duration Feature

[0130]270 Multiple Period Duration Feature

[0131] S₁ Repositioning-Request Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0132] S₂ Thermal Exposure Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0133] S₃ Distress Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0134] S₄ Soiled-Diaper Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0135] St₄ Diaper-Change Satisfaction Signal Provided by Care Provider

[0136] St₄ ⁺ First Diaper-Change Satisfaction Signal

[0137] St₄ Second Diaper-Change Satisfaction Signal

[0138] S₅ Rocking-Request Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0139] St₅ Rocking-Request Satisfaction Signal Provided by Care Provider

[0140] S₆ Feeding-Request Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0141] St₆ Feeding-Request Satisfaction Signal Provided by Care Provider

[0142] S₇ Burping-Request Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0143] St₇ Burping-Request Satisfaction Signal Provided by Care Provider

[0144] S₈ Fussy Signal Generated by the Infant Simulator

[0145] + Positive (“Contented”) Signal Generated by Infant Simulator

[0146] S^(ID) Identification Signal

[0147] Sw^(ID) Identification Switch

[0148]

Bypass

[0149] Construction

[0150] As shown in FIG. 1, the infant simulator 05 comprises a doll 10having a recess (unnumbered) within the back 16 of the doll 10 capableof retaining a central microcontroller unit 20 and a battery pack 25 forpowering the central microcontroller unit 20.

[0151] A lock-and-key system (not shown) or tamper indicating device,such as a tamper indicating label 21, can be provided for purposes ofsignaling and/or recording efforts to remove or otherwise access thecentral microcontroller unit 20 and/or battery pack 25 from the doll 10.

[0152] The doll 10 preferably has the appearance of a young infant(e.g., approximately 40 to 80 cm in length and approximately 3 to 5 kgin weight) with a head 11, torso 12, arms 13, and legs 14. The doll 10can be sculpted to depict the skin color and facial feature of variousethnic groups including specifically, but not exclusively, AfricanAmerican, Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic, and Native American.

[0153] The infant simulator 05 can include a variety of modules designedto emulate the care requirements of an infant. These modules include (i)a position sensing module 110, (ii) a temperature sensing module 120,(iii) a compression sensing module 130, (iv) a diaper-change module 140,(v) a rocking module 150, (vi) a feeding module 160 with or without anassociated burping module 170, and (vii) a fussy module 180. The infantsimulator 05 can be designed and programmed with any combination of thedescribed modules, including the ability to selectively activate anddeactivate individual modules for each assignment period.

[0154] The infant simulator 05 is equipped to record the quality of careand responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator 05 and/orsignal the person caring for the infant simulator 05 when care isrequired.

[0155] The modules can be conveniently grouped into the categories of(i) environmental condition sensors, and (ii) episodic events. Inaddition, the specifics of each episodic event can be adjusted by theuse of one or more ancillary features which can be programmed into thecentral microcontroller unit 20.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

[0156] The environmental conditions of abuse, position, temperatureand/or compression can be sensed and reported.

[0157] Abuse Sensing System

[0158] The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a motion sensor 70capable of detecting physical abuse of the doll 10 such as by shaking,striking or throwing of the infant simulator 05. Such an abuse sensingsystem is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,443,388 issued to Jurmain et al.

[0159] A number of different types and styles of motion sensors 70 maybe effectively used to sense and report abuse. One such sensor, capableof providing variable output dependent upon the force of the motion towhich the infant simulator 05 is subjected, is a magnetic field inducedshock sensor manufactured by Directed Electronics, Inc. under Part No.5041C wherein movement of a magnet, resulting from a correspondingmovement of the doll 10, generates an electrical current in an inductioncoil, with the strength of the electrical current proportional to thespeed and distance traveled by the magnet. The motion sensor 70 iselectrically connected to the central microcontroller unit 20 whereinthe strength of the electrical current generated by the motion sensor 70can be checked against predefined threshold limitations for producingdifferent signals dependent upon the strength of the electrical current.This permits the single motion sensor 70 to differentiate between amodest force, such as produced by normal handling, rocking and burpingof the infant simulator 05, and excessive force, such as experiencedwhen the infant simulator 05 is thrown, shaken or otherwise abused. Whenmotion of the appropriate amplitude is sensed, an electrical abusesignal is sent to the central microcontroller unit 20 and an abuse eventreported.

[0160] The same motion sensor 70 can be effectively used to senserocking and patting as well as abuse.

[0161] Position Sensing System 30

[0162] The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a position sensor30, such as a mercury switch or roller ball switch, capable of sensingthe vertical and horizontal positioning of the infant simulator 05 andcommunicating the sensed position as between an acceptable position(switch open) and an unacceptable position (switch closed) to thecentral microcontroller unit 20. Acceptable positioning includes layingon its back or left side, while unacceptable positioning includes layingface down or upside down. Suitable positioning sensors are availablefrom a number of manufacturers. One suitable position sensing switch isan SPST SMT normally open switch manufactured by ITT Canon under PartNo. KSC421JD.

[0163] In order to avoid the sensing of routine handling as anunacceptable positioning of the infant simulator 05, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 is preferably programmed with a threshold timevalue, such as 3 to 10 seconds, which must be exceeded before a sensedunacceptable positioning is reported and/or recorded as an unacceptablepositioning of the infant simulator 05.

[0164] In a first embodiment, a recording function within the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 records occurrences of unacceptable positioningfor later review by the teacher or program administrator. The specificinformation recorded and reported by the central microcontroller unit 20can range from the relatively simple to the complex. For example, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record andreport that the infant simulator 05 was unacceptably positioned at leastonce during the assignment period. Alternatively, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can record the number of times the infantsimulator 05 was unacceptably positioned and the duration of eachoccurrence. A nonexhaustive list of options for recording and reportingpositioning data is set forth in Table One, provided below. TABLE ONE(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING UNACCEPTABLE POSITIONING DATA) DATASAMPLE OPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDED READOUT 1 Records and reports onlyfact that the YES/NO Light ON/OFF infant simulator was unacceptablypositioned at least once during the assignment period. 2 Records andreports the number of Number “5.” times the infant simulator wasunacceptably positioned. Records and reports total amount of Minutes 45time the infant simulator was unacceptably positioned during anassignment period. 3 Records and reports the number of #/Minutes 5:45times the infant simulator was unacceptably positioned and the totalamount of time the infant simulator was unacceptably positioned. 3Records and reports the number of #/Minutes 5:45 times the infantsimulator was Minutes 03 unacceptably positioned, the total amount oftime the infant simulator was unacceptably positioned, and the meanduration of each occurrence. 3 Records and reports the amount of#/Minutes 1: 03 time the infant simulator remained in 2: 18 anunacceptable position for each 3: 20 occurrence during an assignment 4:02 period. 5: 02 4 Records and reports the number of #/Minutes 5: 45times the infant simulator was Minutes 03:18:20:02:02 unacceptablypositioned, the total amount of time the infant simulator wasunacceptably positioned, and the amount of time the infant simulatorremained in an unacceptable position for each occurrence during anassignment period.

[0165] In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 isconnected to a system (not shown) capable of generating arepositioning-request signal S₁, such as an audible cry or scream. Thecentral microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to generate therepositioning-request signal S₁ whenever the infant simulator 05 isplaced in an unacceptable position (e.g., laying face down or upsidedown) and left in that position beyond a minimum threshold time period(e.g., ten seconds). Generation of the repositioning-request signal S₁warns the person caring for the infant simulator 05 that the infantsimulator 05 is in an improper position and corrective action isrequired. The repositioning-request signal S₁ and timing of thepositioning-request episode can be terminated by simply repositioningthe infant simulator 05 into an acceptable position, thereby opening theposition sensor 30 and terminating transmission of an electrical signalfrom the position sensor 30 to the central microcontroller unit 20.

[0166] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe repositioning-request signal S₁ only at the beginning of eachoccurrence of improper positioning (i.e., generate a three second signalonce the infant simulator 05 is sensed in an unacceptable position forlonger than the minimum threshold time period), periodically throughoutan improper positioning occurrence, or continuously throughout animproper positioning occurrence.

[0167] A preferred embodiment of the position sensing system 30 combinesboth the recording and signaling systems.

[0168] The repositioning-request signal S₁ may be intensified, inaccordance with the ancillary feature of providing an escalated demandsignal 240, based upon an increase in the length of time the infantsimulator 05 is unacceptably positioned. An example of each is set forthin Table Two, provided below. TABLE TWO (ESCALATINGREPOSITIONING-REQUEST SIGNAL) LENGTH OF TIME INFANT SIMULATOR REMAINS INSTRENGTH OF AN UNACCEPTABLE PERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL POSITION (AUDIBLE)(MINUTES) 1^(st) Intensity (soft cry) <10 2^(nd) Intensity (loud cry)>10

[0169] Temperature Sensing System 40

[0170] The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a temperature sensor40, such as a simple thermocouple, capable of sensing the environmentaltemperatures to which the infant simulator 05 is exposed andcommunicating the sensed temperatures to the central microcontrollerunit 20.

[0171] In a first embodiment, a recording function within the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 records the sensed temperatures for later reviewby the teacher or program administrator. The specific informationrecorded and reported by the central microcontroller unit 20 can rangefrom the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and reportwhether the sensed environmental temperature fell outside a definedacceptable temperature range (e.g., 10° C. and 40° C., preferably 15° C.and 35° C.) at least once during the assignment period. Alternatively,the central microcontroller unit 20 can record temperature values everytwo minutes throughout an entire assignment period and graphicallyreport the recorded temperatures at the end of the assignment period. Anonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting thermalexposure data is set forth in Table Three, provided below. TABLE THREE(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING THERMAL EXPOSURE DATA) DATA SAMPLEOPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDED READOUT 1 Records only fact that sensedYES/NO Light ON/OFF temperature fell outside of acceptable temperaturerange at least once (i.e. thermal exposure episode occurred). 2 Recordsnumber of thermal exposure Number “3.” episodes. 3 Records high and lowtemperature ° C. 22° C.: 49° C. extremes. 4 Records high and lowtemperature ° C *° C.: 49° C. extremes experienced during all thermalexposure episodes. 5 Records the number and temperature ° C. 1: 42° C.extreme for each thermal exposure 2: 44° C. episode. 3: 53° C. 4: 8° C.6 Records the number and duration of #/Minutes 1: 06 each thermalexposure episode. 2: 18 3: 02 4: 02 5: 02 7 Records the number ofthermal #/° C. 1: 07, 07, 06, 07, 08, exposure episodes and continuously 06, 04, 03, 05, records the temperature throughout a  07. thermalexposure episode. 2: 41, 43, 45, 46,  47, 47, 47, 47,  45, 42,41. 8Continuously records the temperature Minutes/° C/ 02: 27 throughout anassignment period. 04: 27 06: 28 08: 29 10: 28

[0172] In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 isprogrammed with defined upper and lower temperature limits (e.g., 10° C.and 40° C., preferably 15° C. and 35° C.) and connected to a system (notshown) capable of generating a perceptible thermal exposure signal S₂.The central microcontroller unit 20 is programmed to generate theperceptible thermal exposure signal S₂ when the sensed temperature fallsoutside the acceptable temperature range. Generation of the perceptiblethermal exposure signal S₂ warns the person caring for the infantsimulator 05 that the environmental temperature has reached anunacceptable level and corrective action is required. The thermalexposure signal S₂ and timing of the thermal exposure episode can beterminated by removing the infant simulator 05 from the unacceptablywarm or cold environment (e.g., removing the infant simulator 05 fromthe car), thereby returning the body temperature of the infant simulator05 to an acceptable temperature and ceasing transmission of anelectrical signal from the temperature sensor 40 to the centralmicrocontroller unit 20.

[0173] A preferred embodiment of the temperature sensor module combinesboth the recording and signaling systems.

[0174] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible thermal exposure signal S₂ only at the beginning of athermal exposure episode (i.e., generate a ten second signal as soon asa sensed temperature falls outside the acceptable temperature range),periodically throughout a thermal exposure episode (e.g., generate a twosecond signal every minute once the sensed temperature falls outside theacceptable temperature range until the sensed temperature returns to theacceptable temperature range), or continuously throughout a thermalexposure episode.

[0175] The thermal exposure signal S₂ may be intensified, in accordancewith the ancillary feature of providing an escalated demand signal 240,based upon (i) an increase in the difference between the sensedtemperature and the temperature limit, and/or (ii) an increase in theduration of the thermal exposure episode. An example of each is setforth in Table Four, provided below. TABLE FOUR (ESCALATINGTHERMAL-DISCOMFORT SIGNAL) THERMAL STRENGTH OF EXPOSURE TEMPERATUREBEYOND PERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL DURATION ACCEPTABLE LIMIT (AUDIBLE) (MINUTES)LIMIT (° C.) 1^(st) Intensity (whimper) <5  <5  2^(nd) Intensity(scream) 5 to 10 5 to 10 3^(rd) Intensity (shriek) >10 >10

[0176] The temperature sensor 40, as with the central microcontrollerunit 20 and battery pack 25, is preferably equipped with a tamperindicating device (not shown) for purposes of signaling and/or recordingefforts to remove or otherwise access the temperature senor 40.

[0177] Compression Sensing System 50

[0178] The infant simulator 05 can be equipped with a compressionsensing system 50 capable of sensing compression of the doll 10, such assqueezing of the doll's head 11, arms 13 and/or legs 14, andcommunicating any sensed compression to the central microcontroller unit20.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 3, a compression sensing system 50 is providedin the head 11 of the doll 10 for sensing squeezing or striking of thehead 11. The head 11 is constructed of a pliant material, such as a softvinyl material, with a normally open electrical circuit 51 providedwithin the head 11. The first contact 51 a of the electrical circuit 51is a thin layer of conductive material laminated to the inside surface.(unnumbered) of the head 11 such that the conductive material moves inconcert with the head 11 when the head 11 is deformed The second contact51 b of the electrical circuit 51 is a cage of conductive materialinwardly spaced from the first contact 51 a of the electrical circuit51. The spacing between the first 51 a and second 51 b contacts of thenormally open electrical circuit 51 is selected so that the contacts 51a and 51 b will engage one another and close the electrical circuit 51when the head 11 is subjected to a compressive force or an impact forcereflective of abusive squeezing or striking of the head 11. Spacingbetween the first 51 a and second 51 b contacts should be selected sothat the compression sensing system 50 will consistently sensecompressive and impact forces reflective of abuse without sensingcompressive and impact forces reflective of normal handling. The spacingnecessary to achieve these desired sensing parameter is dependent upon anumber of factors, including the type of material used to construct thehead 11, the thickness of the material forming the head 11, the size andshape of the head 11, the flexibility of the material laminated to theinside surface of the head 11 to form the first contact 51 a, etc. Byway of illustration, when the head 11 is molded from approximately ¼inch thick plasticized polyvinyl chloride, and the first contact 51 a isa 3 to 4 mil thick aluminum foil, a spacing of approximately ½ to 1 inchshould generally provide the desired sensing parameters (i.e.,consistently sensing compressive and impact forces reflective of abusewithout sensing compressive and impact forces reflective of normalhandling).

[0180] Optionally, a flexible second cage (not shown) comprising a thirdcontact (not shown) could be positioned intermediate the first 51 a andsecond 51 b contacts to form a secondary electrical circuit (not shown)with the first contact 51 a in electrical communication with the centralmicrocontroller unit 20. The third contact (not shown) would beconstructed of a material sufficiently flexible to permit the first 51 aand third (not shown) contacts to engage the second contact 51 b whenthe head 11 experienced an abusive level of compressive or impact force.When such a secondary electrical circuit (not shown) is employed, thecompression sensing system 50 is capable of sensing different levels ofcompressive or impact force (e.g., the secondary circuit is closed whena “mild” or “low” compressive or impact force is experienced while theprimary circuit 51 is closed when an “abusive” or “high” compressive orimpact force is experienced).

[0181] In a first embodiment, a recording function within the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 records sensed compression episodes for laterreview by the teacher or program administrator. The specific informationrecorded and reported by the central microcontroller unit 20 can rangefrom the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and reportthe occurrence of at least one sensed compression episode during theassignment period. Alternatively, the central microcontroller unit 20can record and report the number of sensed compression episodesoccurring during an assignment period and the duration of each sensedcompression episode. A nonexhaustive list of options for recording andreporting compression episode data is set forth in Table Five, providedbelow. TABLE FIVE (OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING COMPRESSIONEPISODE DATA) DATA SAMPLE OPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDED READOUT 1 Recordsoccurrence of first YES/NO Light ON/OFF compression episode only. 2Records number of separate Number “3.” compression episodes. 3 Recordsmaximum level of Force Level High compressive force sensed during an(Low/high) assignment period. 5 Records the number of compression # 1:Low episodes sensed during an assignment Force Level 2: Low period andthe maximum level of (Low/High) 3: High compressive force sensed foreach 4: Low compression episode. 6 Records the number and duration of#/Seconds 1: 01 each compression episode sensed 2: 01 during anassignment period. 3: 08 4: 02

[0182] In a second embodiment, the central microcontroller unit 20 isconnected to a system (not shown) capable of generating a perceptibledistress signal S₃, such as an audible cry or scream. The centralmicrocontroller unit 20 is programmed to generate the perceptibledistress signal S₃ when compression is sensed. Generation of theperceptible distress signal S₃ warns the person caring for the infantsimulator 05 that the infant simulator 05 has been subjected toinjurious compression or impact. The distress signal S₃ can beterminated, optionally after an appropriate delay, and timing of thecompression episode ended, by removing the external event responsiblefor the compression or impact (e.g., removing the hand of a youngsibling squeezing the head 11 of the infant simulator 05), therebyreopening the compression sensing electrical circuit 51 and terminatingtransmission of an electrical signal from the electrical circuit 51 tothe central microcontroller unit 20.

[0183] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible distress signal S₃ only at the beginning of acompression episode (i.e., generate a three second signal as soon as acompression episode is sensed), continuously throughout a compressionepisode, or continuously throughout a compression episode and for anadditional time period after compression of the infant simulator 05 hasceased for purposes of simulating injury to the infant simulator 05.

[0184] A preferred embodiment of the compression sensing system 50combines both the recording and signaling systems.

[0185] The distress signal S₃ may be intensified, in accordance with theancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240, basedupon (i) an increase in the maximum sensed compressive force, and/or(ii) an increase in the duration of the compression episode. An exampleof each is set forth in Table Six, provided below. TABLE SIX (ESCALATINGDISTRESS SIGNAL) COMPRESSION STRENGTH OF EPISODE PERCEPTIBLE SIGNALDURATION COMPRESSIVE (AUDIBLE) (SECONDS) FORCE 1^(st) Intensity (cry) <5Low 2^(nd) Intensity (scream) >5 High

EPISODIC EVENTS

[0186] Diaper-Change Event

[0187] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effectperiodic diaper-change episodes, wherein the student caring for theinfant simulator 05 is signaled by the infant simulator 05, on aschedule unknown to the student, that the diaper 60 on the infantsimulator 05 needs to be changed. Preferred soiled-diaper signals S₄include an audible cry and/or a wetting of the diaper 60.

[0188] The time interval between diaper-change periods can be a boundedrandom variable (e.g., occurring every 30 to 120 minutes) or apredetermined variable (e.g., sequentially occurring at intervals of 30,90, 30, 30, 120, 60, 20 and 90 minutes). In order to more accuratelyemulate the care requirements of an actual infant, and prevent studentsfrom memorizing the schedule of events, it is generally preferred tocontrol the time interval between events as a bounded random variable.Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a differentfixed schedule of events, can also be realistically employed so long asthe students do not know which program has been selected (i.e., theschedule of events is random from the perspective of the student) andthe number of programs is sufficient to prevent the students frommemorizing one or two different schedules and thereafter being able topartially defeat the purpose of the program by ignoring the infantsimulator 05 between scheduled events.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 3, the infant simulator 05 can include a pairof oppositely mounted, normally open Hall Effect switches 62 a and 62 b(hereinafter diaper-change switches), within the torso 12 of the doll10. A wide variety of suitable Hall Effect switches 62 are availablefrom a number of different manufacturers, including Hall Effect switchModel No. DN 6851 manufactured by Panasonic. The diaper-change switches62 are electrically connected to the central microcontroller unit 20.Because the diaper-change switches 62 are mounted in reverse directionswithin the doll 10, the first diaper-change switch 62 a is closed onlyby a magnet 61 having a “north” facing polarity, while the seconddiaper-change switch 62 b is closed only by a magnet 61 having a “south”facing polarity.

[0190] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4 b, the student caring for the infantsimulator 05 is provided with two diapers 60 sized to fit the infantsimulator 05. A magnet 61 is sewn into each of the diapers 60 at aposition effective for placing the magnet 61 in close proximity to theappropriate diaper-change switch 62 when the diaper 60 is fitted ontothe doll 10. The magnet 61 in the first diaper 60 a is rotated so thatthe magnet 61 has a “north” facing polarity when the first diaper 60 ais fitted onto the doll 10, while the magnet 61 in the second diaper 60b is rotated so that the magnet 61 has a “south” facing polarity whenthe second diaper 60 b is fitted onto the doll 10. When the appropriatediaper-change switch 62 is closed, an electrical satisfaction signal issent to the central microcontroller unit 20 and the soiled-diaper signalS₄ is arrested. Timing of the diaper-change episode is also terminated.

[0191] The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a diaper-changeepisode by alternating the “selected” diaper-change switch 62 as betweenthe first 62 a and second 62 b diaper-change switches, and initiatinggeneration of a perceptible soiled-diaper signal S₄. In order to arrestthe soiled-diaper signal S₄, the student must close the newly selecteddiaper-change switch 62 by changing the diaper 60.

[0192] The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes arecording function for recording relevant diaper-change episode data forlater review by the teacher or program administrator. The specificinformation recorded by the central microcontroller unit 20 can rangefrom the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and reportthe total duration of all diaper-change episodes. Alternatively, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total numberof diaper-change episodes which occurred during an assignment period andthe duration of each individual diaper-change episode. A nonexhaustivelist of options for recording and reporting relevant diaper-changeepisode data is set forth in Table Seven, provided below. TABLE SEVEN(OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING DIAPER-CHANGE EPISODE DATA) DATASAMPLE OPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDED READOUT 1 Records and reports totalduration of Minutes 45 all diaper-change episodes occurring throughoutan assignment period. 2 Records and reports number of diaper- #/Minutes5:45 change episodes and total duration of all diaper-change episodesoccurring throughout an assignment period. 3 Records and reports numberof diaper- #/Minutes 5:45 change episodes, total duration of all Minutes03 diaper-change episodes occurring throughout an assignment period, andmean duration of the diaper-change episodes. 3 Records and reportsduration of each #/Minutes 1: 03 diaper-change episode occurring 2: 18throughout an assignment period. 3: 20 4: 02 5: 02 4 Records and reportsnumber of diaper- #/Minutes 5: 45 change episodes, total duration of allMinutes 03:18:20:02:02 diaper-change episodes occurring throughout anassignment period, and duration of each diaper-change episode occurringthroughout an assignment period.

[0193] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible soiled-diaper signal S₄ only at the beginning of adiaper-change period (i.e., generate a ten second signal when adiaper-change period is initiated by the central microcontroller unit20), periodically throughout a diaper-change period (e.g., generate atwo second signal every minute once a diaper-change period is initiatedby the central microcontroller unit 20), or continuously throughout adiaper-change period.

[0194] The soiled-diaper signal S₄ may be intensified, in accordancewith the ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240,based upon an increase in the duration of the diaper-change episode. Anexample is set forth in Table Eight, provided below. TABLE EIGHT(ESCALATING SOILED DIAPER SIGNAL) STRENGTH OF DIAPER-CHANGE EPISODEPERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL DURATION (AUDIBLE) (MINUTES) 1^(st) Intensity (softcry) <10 2^(nd) Intensity (loud cry) >10

[0195] Rocking Event

[0196] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effectperiodic rocking-request episodes, wherein the student caring for theinfant simulator 05 is signaled by the infant simulator 05, on aschedule unknown to the student, to provide the infant simulator 05 withattentive care in the form of rocking. Preferred types ofrocking-request signals S₅ include crying, whimpering, fidgeting andcombinations thereof.

[0197] The time interval between rocking periods can be a bounded randomvariable (e.g., occurring every 30 to 120 minutes) or a predeterminedvariable (e.g., sequentially occurring at intervals of 30, 90, 30, 30,120, 60, 20 and 90 minutes). In order to more accurately emulate thecare requirements of an actual infant, and prevent students frommemorizing the schedule of events, it is generally preferred to controlthe time interval between events as a bounded random variable.Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a differentfixed schedule of events, can also be realistically employed so long asthe students do not know which program has been selected (i.e., theschedule of events is random from the perspective of the student) andthe number of programs is sufficient to prevent the students frommemorizing one or two different schedules and thereafter being able topartially defeat the purpose of the program by ignoring the infantsimulator 05 between scheduled events.

[0198] Referring to FIG. 3, the infant simulator 05 can include a motionsensor 70 within the torso 12 of the doll 10 effective for sensingrocking of the infant simulator 05. A number of different types andstyles of motion sensors 70 may be effectively used. One such sensor,capable of providing variable output dependent upon the force of themotion to which the infant simulator 05 is subjected, is a magneticfield induced shock sensor manufactured by Directed Electronics, Inc.under Part No. 5041C wherein movement of a magnet, resulting from acorresponding movement of the doll 10, generates an electrical currentin an induction coil, with the strength of the electrical currentproportional to the speed and distance traveled by the magnet. Themotion sensor 70 is electrically connected to the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 wherein the strength of the electrical currentgenerated by the motion sensor 70 can be checked against predefinedthreshold limitations for producing different signals dependent upon thestrength of the electrical current. This permits the single motionsensor 70 to differentiate between a modest force, such as produced bynormal handling, rocking and burping of the infant simulator 05, andexcessive force, such as experienced when the infant simulator 05 isthrown, shaken or otherwise abused. When motion of the appropriateamplitude is sensed, an electrical satisfaction signal is sent to thecentral microcontroller unit 20 and the rocking-request signal S₅ isarrested. Timing of the rocking-request episode is also terminated.

[0199] The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a rocking-requestepisode by initiating generation of a perceptible rocking-request signalS₅. In order to arrest the rocking-request signal S₅, the student mustrock the infant simulator 05 with sufficient force to generate anappropriate electrical current in the motion sensor 70 (i.e., sufficientto signal “rocking” but insufficient to signal “abuse”).

[0200] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to eitherterminate or inhibit generation of the rocking-request signal S₅ oncerocking is sensed. When the termination option is selected, the studentneed only rock the infant simulator 05 for some minimum time period(e.g., two to ten seconds) sufficient to ensure that rocking has beensensed, after which the student may stop rocking the infant simulator 05and the rocking-request signal S₅ will not begin again. When theinhibition option is selected, the student must continuously rock theinfant simulator 05 throughout the rocking period (e.g., five to twentyminutes) to prevent the rocking-request signal S₅ from being generated.The inhibition option is generally preferred as it more closely emulatesthe care requirements of an actual infant.

[0201] The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes arecording function for recording relevant rocking-request episode datafor later review by the teacher or program administrator. The specificinformation recorded by the central microcontroller unit 20 can rangefrom the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and reportthe total duration of all rocking-request episodes. Alternatively, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total numberof rocking-request episodes which occurred during an assignment periodand the duration of each individual rocking-request episode. Anonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting relevantrocking-request episode data is set forth in Table Nine, provided below.TABLE NINE (OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING ROCKING-REQUEST EPISODEDATA) DATA SAMPLE OPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDED READOUT 1 Records andreports total duration of Minutes 45 all rocking-request episodesoccurring throughout an assignment period. 2 Records and reports numberof #/Minutes 5:45 rocking-request episodes and total duration of allrocking-request episodes occurring throughout an assignment period. 3Records and reports number of #/Minutes 5:45 rocking-request episodes,total Minutes 03 duration of all rocking-request episodes, and meanduration of the rocking-request episodes occurring throughout anassignment period. 3 Records and reports duration of each #/Minutes 1:03 rocking-requested episode occurring 2: 18 throughout an assignmentperiod. 3: 20 4: 02 5: 02 4 Records and reports number of #/Minutes 5:45 rocking-request episodes, total Minutes 03:18:20:02:02 duration ofall rocking-request episodes, and duration of each rocking-requestepisode occurring throughout an assignment period.

[0202] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible rocking-request signal S₅ only at the beginning of arocking period (i.e., generate a ten second signal when a rocking periodis initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), periodicallythroughout a rocking period (e.g., generate a two second signal everyminute once a rocking period is initiated by the central microcontrollerunit 20), or continuously throughout a rocking period.

[0203] The rocking-request signal S₅ may be intensified, in accordancewith the ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240,based upon an increase in the duration of the rocking-request episode.An example is set forth in Table Ten, provided below. TABLE TEN(ESCALATING ROCKING-REQUEST SIGNAL) STRENGTH OF ROCKING-REQUESTPERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL EPISODE DURATION (AUDIBLE) (MINUTES) 1^(st) Intensity(soft cry) <10 2^(nd) Intensity (loud cry) >10

[0204] Feeding Event

[0205] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effectperiodic feeding-request episodes, wherein the student caring for theinfant simulator 05 is signaled by the infant simulator 05, on aschedule unknown to the student, to feed the infant simulator 05.Preferred types of feeding-request signals S₆ include crying, sucking,outstretched arms 13 and combinations thereof.

[0206] The time interval between feeding periods can be a bounded randomvariable (e.g., occurring every 30 to 120 minutes) or a predeterminedvariable (e.g., sequentially occurring at intervals of 30, 90, 30, 30,120, 60, 20 and 90 minutes). In order to more accurately emulate thecare requirements of an actual infant, and prevent students frommemorizing the schedule of events, it is generally preferred to controlthe time interval between events as a bounded random variable.Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, each providing a differentfixed schedule of events, can also be realistically employed so long asthe students do not know which program has been selected (i.e., theschedule of events is random from the perspective of the student) andthe number of programs is sufficient to prevent the students frommemorizing one or two different schedules and thereafter being able topartially defeat the purpose of the program by ignoring the infantsimulator 05 between scheduled events.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 3, the infant simulator 05 can include anormally open Hall Effect switch 82 (hereinafter feed switch), withinthe head 11 of the doll 10 immediately behind the mouth (unnumbered).The feed switch 82 is electrically connected to the centralmicrocontroller unit 20. The feed switch 82 is normally open, and can beclosed only by a magnet 81 having the appropriately directed polarity.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 5, the student caring for the infant simulator05 is provided with a bottle 80 scaled to the size of the infantsimulator 05. A magnet 81 is molded into the bottle 80 at a positioneffective for placing the magnet 81 in close proximity to the feedswitch 82 when the bottle 80 is placed against the mouth (unnumbered) ofthe doll 10. Alternatively, the magnet 81 can be molded within a key(not shown) bearing indicia representative of a bottle.

[0209] The mouth (unnumbered) of the doll 10 can optionally be molded toinclude a shaped indentation (not shown) into which a correspondinglyshaped nipple 80 n on the bottle 80 can be inserted. The shape of theindentation (not shown) and the nipple 80 n are selected so that thebottle 80 must be rotated into a predetermined relationship relative tothe head 11 of the doll 10 in order to fit within the indentation (notshown). Such rotation-specific shapes include specifically, but notexclusively, an isosceles triangle, a circular segment, and an “L.” Whenthe nipple 80 n of the bottle 80 is fitted within the indentation (notshown) in the mouth (unnumbered) the magnet 81 in the bottle 80 isproperly oriented relative to the feed switch 82 and the feed switch 82is closed. When the feed switch 82 is closed, an electrical satisfactionsignal is sent to the central microcontroller unit 20 and thefeeding-request signal S₆ arrested. Timing of the feeding-requestepisode is also terminated.

[0210] The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a feeding-requestepisode by initiating generation of a perceptible feeding -requestsignal. In order to arrest the feeding-request signal, the student must“feed” the infant simulator 05 by placing the bottle 80 against themouth (unnumbered) of the doll 10.

[0211] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to eitherterminate or inhibit generation of the feeding-request signal S₆ oncethe feeding signal is sensed. When the termination option is selected,the student need only feed the infant simulator 05 for some minimum timeperiod (e.g., two to ten seconds) sufficient to ensure that feeding hasbeen sensed, after which the student may stop feeding the infantsimulator 05 and the feeding -request signal will not begin again. Whenthe inhibition option is selected, the student must continuously feedthe infant simulator 05 throughout the feeding -request period (e.g.,five to twenty minutes) to prevent the feeding -request signal frombeing generated. The inhibition option is generally preferred as it moreclosely emulates the care requirements of an actual infant.

[0212] The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes arecording function for recording relevant feeding -request episode datafor later review by the teacher or program administrator. The specificinformation recorded by the central microcontroller unit 20 can rangefrom the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and reportthe total duration of all feeding-request episodes. Alternatively, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total numberof feeding-request episodes which occurred during an assignment periodand the duration of each individual feeding-request episode. Anonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting relevantfeeding-request episode data is set forth in Table Eleven, providedbelow. TABLE ELEVEN (OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTING FEEDING-REQUESTEPISODE DATA) DATA SAMPLE OPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDED READOUT 1 Recordsand reports total Minutes 45 duration of all feeding-request episodesoccurring throughout an assignment period. 2 Records and reports number#/Minutes 5:45 of feeding-request episodes and total duration of allfeeding-request episodes occurring throughout an assignment period. 3Records and reports number #/Minutes 5:45 of feeding-request episodes,Minutes 03 total duration of all feeding- request episodes, and meanduration of the feeding- request episodes occurring throughout anassignment period. 3 Records and reports duration #/Minutes 1:03 of eachfeeding-request 2:18 episode occurring throughout 3:20 an assignmentperiod. 4:02 5:02 4 Records and reports number #/Minutes 5:45 offeeding-request episodes, Minutes 03:18:20:02:02 total duration of allfeeding-request episodes, and duration of each feeding- request episodeoccurring throughout an assignment period.

[0213] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible feeding-request signal S₆ only at the beginning of afeeding period (i.e., generate a ten second signal when a feeding periodis initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), periodicallythroughout a feeding period (e.g., generate a two second signal everyminute once a feeding period is initiated by the central microcontrollerunit 20), or continuously throughout a feeding period.

[0214] The feeding-request signal S₆ may be intensified, in accordancewith the ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240,based upon an increase in the duration of the feeding-request episode.An example is set forth in Table Twelve, provided below. TABLE TWELVE(ESCALATING FEEDING-REQUEST SIGNAL) STRENGTH OF FEEDING-REQUESTPERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL EPISODE DURATION (AUDIBLE) (MINUTES) 1^(st) Intensity(soft cry) <10 2^(nd) Intensity (loud cry) >10

[0215] Burping Event

[0216] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effectburping-request episodes, wherein the student caring for the infantsimulator 05 is signaled by the infant simulator 05, on a scheduleunknown to the student, to burp the infant simulator 05 after the infantsimulator 05 has been feed in response to a feeding-request signal S₆.Burping-request periods can be initiated after the satisfaction of someor all of the feeding periods and is preferably initiated independentlyof any environmentally sensed conditions (e.g., initiation of a burpingperiod is not contingent upon the student laying the infant simulator 05face down on the floor after a feeding period). Preferred types ofburping-request signals S₇ include crying, whimpering, fidgeting andcombinations thereof.

[0217] Burping-request periods can be initiated immediately after theend of a satisfied feeding period or after a defined delay (e.g., two tothirty minutes). The delay between the end of a feeding period andinitiation of a burping period can be a bounded random variable (e.g., 0to 30 minutes) or a predetermined variable (e.g., sequentially occurringat intervals of 0, 9, 3, 0, 12, 6, 20 and 9 minutes). In order to moreaccurately emulate the care requirements of an actual infant, andprevent students from memorizing and sharing the schedule of events, itis generally preferred to control the length of the delay as a boundedrandom variable. Alternatively, multiple predefined programs, eachproviding a different fixed schedule of events including scheduling ofburping periods, can also be realistically employed so long as thestudents do not know which program has been selected (i.e., the scheduleof events is random from the perspective of the student) and the numberof different delay durations is sufficient to prevent the students frommemorizing one or two different delay durations and thereafter beingable to partially defeat the purpose of the program by ignoring theinfant simulator 05 between sequential feeding and burping events.

[0218] Referring to FIG. 3, the same motion sensor 70 used for purposesof sensing rocking of the infant simulator 05 can also be effectivelyused to sense burping of the infant simulator 05 since the type ofmotion provided by rocking and patting are both detectable by the motionsensor 70. When motion of the appropriate amplitude is sensed, anelectrical satisfaction signal is sent to the central microcontrollerunit 20 and the burping-request signal S₇ is arrested. Timing of theburping-request episode is also terminated.

[0219] The central microcontroller unit 20 initiates a burping-requestepisode by initiating generation of a perceptible burping-request signalS₇. In order to arrest the burping-request signal S₇, the student mustburp or pat the infant simulator 05 with sufficient force to generate anappropriate electrical current in the motion sensor 70 (i.e., sufficientto signal “patting” but insufficient to signal “abuse”).

[0220] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to eitherterminate or inhibit generation of the burping-request signal S₇ oncepatting is sensed. When the termination option is selected, the studentneed only burp the infant simulator 05 for some minimum time period(e.g., two to ten seconds) sufficient to ensure that burping has beensensed, after which the student may stop burping the infant simulator 05and the burping-request signal S₇ will not begin again. When theinhibition option is selected, the student must continuously burp theinfant simulator 05 throughout the burping period (e.g., two to sixtyminutes, preferably five to twenty minutes) to prevent theburping-request signal S₇ from being generated. The inhibition option isgenerally preferred as it more closely emulates the care requirements ofan actual infant.

[0221] The micro controller unit 20 can optionally be programmed togenerate a “burp” sound at the end of a burping period, provided therequested burping action has been provided during the burping period(e.g., threshold duration of patting provided during burping period),for purposes of providing the student with positive feedback.

[0222] The central microcontroller unit 20 preferably includes arecording function for recording relevant burping-request episode datafor later review by the teacher or program administrator. The specificinformation recorded by the central microcontroller unit 20 can rangefrom the relatively simple to the complex. For example, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 can be programmed to simply record and reportthe total duration of all burping-request episodes. Alternatively, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 can record and report the total numberof burping-request episodes which occurred during an assignment periodand the duration of each individual burping-request episode. Anonexhaustive list of options for recording and reporting relevantburping-request episode data is set forth in Table Thirteen, providedbelow. TABLE THIRTEEN (OPTIONS FOR RECORDING AND REPORTINGBURPING-REQUEST EPISODE DATA) DATA SAMPLE OPTION DESCRIPTION RECORDEDREADOUT 1 Records and reports total Minutes 45 duration of allburping-request episodes occurring throughout an assignment period. 2Records and reports number #/Minutes 5:45 of burping-request episodesand total duration of all burping-request episodes occurring throughoutan assignment period. 3 Records and reports number #/Minutes 5:45 ofburping-request episodes, Minutes 03 total duration of all burping-request episodes, and mean duration of the burping- request episodesoccurring throughout an assignment period. 3 Records and reportsduration #/Minutes 1:03 of each burping-request 2:18 episode occurringthroughout 3:20 an assignment period. 4:02 5:02 4 Records and reportsnumber #/Minutes 5:45 of burping-request episodes, Minutes03:18:20:02:02 total duration of all burping- request episodes, andduration of each burping-request episode occurring throughout anassignment period.

[0223] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible burping-request signal S₇ only at the beginning of aburping period (i.e., generate a ten second signal when a burping periodis initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), periodicallythroughout a burping period (e.g., generate a two second signal everyminute once a burping period is initiated by the central microcontrollerunit 20), or continuously throughout a burping period.

[0224] The burping-request signal S₇ may be intensified, in accordancewith the ancillary feature of providing an escalating demand signal 240,based upon an increase in the duration of the burping-request episode.An example is set forth in Table Fourteen, provided below. TABLEFOURTEEN (ESCALATING BURPING-REQUEST SIGNAL) STRENGTH OF BURPING-REQUESTPERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL EPISODE DURATION (AUDIBLE) (MINUTES) 1^(st) Intensity(soft cry) <10 2^(nd) Intensity (loud cry) >10

[0225] Fussy Event

[0226] For purposes of emulating the actions of an actual infant, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to effect periodicfussy periods, wherein the student caring for the infant simulator 05 issignaled by the infant simulator 05, on a schedule unknown to thestudent, to tend to the infant simulator 05, without an ability toarrest the perceptible signal being generated by the infant simulator05. Of course, the implementation of a fussy episode is only meaningfulwhen used in combination with at least one other demand event (i.e.,environmental condition and/or episodic event) for which the perceptiblesignal can be arrested by taking the appropriate action. Fussy eventscan be interspersed throughout the assignment period as desired forpurposes of emulating those times occasionally encountered in real life,when the infant is crying and nothing seems to satisfy the infant.

[0227] The central microcontroller unit 20 can be programmed to generatethe perceptible fussy signal S₈ only at the beginning of a fussy period(i.e., generate a ten second signal when a fussy period is initiated bythe central microcontroller unit 20), periodically throughout a fussyperiod (e.g., generate a two second signal every minute once a fussyperiod is initiated by the central microcontroller unit 20), orcontinuously throughout a fussy period. Preferred types of fussy signalsS₈ include crying, whimpering, whining, coughing, fidgeting andcombinations thereof.

[0228] The student should be expected to make some effort to satisfy thefussing infant simulator 05. Handling of the infant simulator 05 can bedetected by the same motion sensor 70 used for purposes of sensingrocking and burping of the infant simulator 05. In the event that noeffort is made to satisfy the fussing infant simulator 05, the fussysignal S₈ may be intensified, in accordance with the ancillary featureof providing an escalating demand signal 240, based upon a thresholdtime duration during which the fussy signal S₈ has been generatedwithout any detectable handling. An example is set forth in TableFifteen, provided below.

[0229] The perceptible fussy signal S₈—normal or intensified—is notarrested once handling is detected. The receipt of an electrical“handling” signal by the central microcontroller unit 20 is effectiveonly for preventing escalation of the perceptible fussy signal S₈.Hence, once the perceptible fussing signal has been intensified,subsequent handling of the infant simulator 05 does not reduce or arrestthe perceptible fussy signal S₈. TABLE FIFTEEN (ESCALATING FUSSY SIGNAL)STRENGTH OF FUSSY DURATION PERCEPTIBLE SIGNAL WITHOUT HANDLING (AUDIBLE)(MINUTES) 1^(st) Intensity (soft cry) <10 2^(nd) Intensity (loud cry)>10

ANCILLARY FEATURES

[0230] Perceptibly Different Signals

[0231] The infant simulator 05 provides a perceptible signal for each ofa number of different events, selected from (i) the environmentalconditions of position, temperature and compression, and (ii) theepisodic events of diaper-change, rocking, feeding, burping, andfussing. The perceptible signal generated for each of theseconditions/events can be the same or different. For example, theperceptible signal generated when the infant simulator 05 isunacceptable positioned can be a loud cry, while the perceptible signalgenerated for requesting to be fed and to be rocked can be a whimper.The differences can be significant (e.g., whimpering verses screaming),or subtle (e.g., loud whimpering verses soft crying).

[0232] The use of different perceptible signals for differentconditions/events serves the desired effect of awarding attentivestudent by informing such students of the specific satisfaction signalrequired (e.g., a soft cry signal a need to be rocked while whimperingsignals a need to change the diaper 60). In order to prevent thestudents from memorizing and sharing such information, the infantsimulator 05 can optionally be equipped with an ability for the teacheror other program administrator to change the specific perceptible signalto be generated for each condition/ event at the beginning of eachassignment period.

[0233] Contented Signal

[0234] The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to provide apositive response+when the student has appropriately responded to ademand event, (e.g., timely changing a diaper 60 in response to asoiled-diaper signal S₄). The positive response+can be substantially anyperceptible signal recognizable as signaling a happy or contentedinfant, including specifically, but not exclusively audible signals(e.g., cooing or giggling), olfactory signals (e.g., emission ofpleasant scent), visual signals (e.g., smiling, or wiggling of thefeet), and multimedia signals (e.g., cooing and smiling).

[0235] The positive response+can be scheduled to occur immediately uponsatisfaction of the requested activity (e.g., after changing a soileddiaper 60 or at the end of a satisfied burping period) or after adefined time delay (e.g., two minutes after changing a soiled diaper 60or between 20 seconds and two minutes after a satisfied burping periodhas ended).

[0236] The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to provide thepositive response+upon the satisfaction of each and every demand event,only upon the satisfaction of selected demand events, or as a boundedrandom variable (e.g., only after every other satisfied demand event,only after satisfied burping and diaper-change events, or a 20% chanceof occurring after each satisfied demand event). A positiveresponse+should not be provided in connection with an environmentallytriggered event (i.e., thermal exposure signal S₂ or distress signal S₃)since satisfaction of such signals is based upon removal of anunpleasant stimuli rather than the comforting satisfaction of a need.

[0237] Escalating Demand Signal 240

[0238] The microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to escalate thestrength, intensity and/or severity of the perceptible demand signalsgenerated by the infant simulator 05 as the severity of an environmentalcondition increases (e.g., the temperature of the infant simulator 05 ismore than 5° C. greater than a maximum allowable temperature) and/orduration of a demand episode increases (e.g., the demand episode lastslonger than 10 minutes). The escalation can be effected in a variety ofways dependent upon the specific type of signal. For example, an audiblecry can be escalated from a soft cry to a loud cry, or from a cry to ascream. Similarly, a light can be changed from a white light to a redlight.

[0239] The perceptible demand signal can be escalated through any numberof continuous or stepped levels as desired. A simple single steppedescalation—normal to increased—is relatively simple to implement andgenerally effective for providing the student with appropriate noticethat a demand is not being timely satisfied.

[0240] Identification System

[0241] In order to ensure that the student assigned to care for theinfant simulator 05 is at least present when the demands of the infantsimulator 05 are being satisfied (i.e., either providing the necessarycare themselves or securing the necessary care from someone else at thetime the demand event occurs), the infant simulator 05 can be equippedwith an identification system (not shown). The identification system(not shown) would prevent a satisfaction signal (e.g., rocking of theinfant simulator 05) from arresting the demand signal (e.g.,rocking-request signal S₅,) until an identification signal S_(ID) isreceived by the identification system (not shown).

[0242] An exemplary identification system (not shown) includes at least,(i) a means for receiving an identification signal S^(ID) personal tothe assigned care-provider, and (ii) a means in communication with theidentification-signal receiving means (not shown) and the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 effective for preventing arresting of a demandsignal until the identification signal S^(ID) is received by theidentification-signal receiving means (not shown).

[0243] The means for receiving an identification signal S^(ID) personalto the assigned care-provider can be any of a number of systems ordevices capable of identifying and responding only to a unique item orcharacteristic possessed by the assigned care-provider. A nonexhaustivelist of such devices includes (i) a fingerprint recognition device (notshown), (ii) a voice recognition device (not shown), and (iii) a keyhole(not shown) accepting a uniquely shaped identification key 90 attachableto the wrist of the assigned care provider by a tamper indicatingbracelet 91.

[0244] Multiple Behavior Modes

[0245] The central microcontroller unit 20 may be programmed to allow ateacher or other program administrator to change the level of carerequired by the infant simulator 05. Alternatively, selection of thelevel can be randomly selected by the central microcontroller unit 20for each assignment period. These different levels of care can beproduced by altering the time interval between events (i.e., increase ordecrease the number of events occurring within an assignment period)and/or altering the duration of each event (i.e., increase or decreasethe length of each period). The levels of care can be increased and/ordecreased through any number of continuous or stepped levels as desired.A convenient program permits the care level to be selected from amongstan easy level (i.e., long intervals and short events), an average level(i.e., modestly long intervals and alternating long and short events),and a difficult level (e.g., short intervals and long events).

EXAMPLE

[0246]FIGS. 2a-j provide a flowchart for one embodiment of each of themodules listed below in Table Sixteen. Each of the modules includes boththe demand signal generating feature 210 and the recording feature 220,except for the fussy module 180 which includes only a demand signalgenerating feature 210, and the initiation 100 and assignment period 190modules which do not include either of these features.

[0247] The modules also include each of the ancillary features ofcontented signal 230, escalating demand signal 240, and identificationsystem 250 as listed next to each module. The ancillary features ofmultiple time interval durations 260 and multiple period durations 270,used to create multiple behavior modes, are not shown or depicted in theflowchart as such features are controlled by the central microcontrollerunit 20 rather than the individual modules. TABLE SIXTEEN (LISTING OFMODULES AND ANCILLARY FEATURES) REFERENCE MODULE NO. ANCILLARY FEATURESINITIATION 100 None POSITION 110 1. Escalating Demand Signal TEMPERATURE120 1. Escalating Demand Signal COMPRESSION 130 1. Escalating DemandSignal DIAPER CHANGE 140 1. Contented Signal 2. Identification System 3.Escalating Demand Signal ROCKING 150 1. Contented Signal 2.Identification System 3. Escalating Demand Signal FEEDING 160 1.Contented Signal 2. Identification System 3. Escalating Demand SignalBURP 170 1. Contented Signal 2. Identification System 3. EscalatingDemand Signal FUSSY 180 None ASSIGNMENT PERIOD 190 None

[0248] The individual modules can occur in any sequence, with theexception of the initiation module 100 which must occur first, theassignment period module 190 which must occur last, and the burpingmodule 170 which can occur only after satisfaction of the feeding module160. Initiation Module 100

[0249] Upon activating the infant simulator 05, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 turns the bypass signal

ON, begins timing the assignment period, and begins timing the intervalsbetween successive, diaper-change, rocking, feeding, and fussy periodsbased upon the program selected and/or preprogrammed into the centralmicrocontroller unit 20. Based upon the program selected, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 signals each of the diaper-change 140, rocking150, feeding 160 and fussy 180 modules at the appropriate times to startand stop a corresponding demand period, as represented by {circle over(c)} in the flow chart. The central microcontroller unit 20 alsocommences cycling through each of the modules.

[0250] Position Module 110

[0251] The position sensor 30 detects the position of the infantsimulator 05 as between an acceptable position (e.g., laying on its backor left side) and an unacceptable position (e.g., laying face down orupside down) and signals the position module 110 when the infantsimulator 05 is detected in an unacceptable position.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 2b, the position module 110 is bypassed so longas the infant simulator 05 is in an acceptable position. However, whenthe position module 110 receives a signal from the position sensor 30that the infant simulator 05 is in an unacceptable position, theposition module 110 initiates generation of the repositioning-requestsignal S₁ by means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embeddedwithin the module 110, starts timing the length of time therepositioning-request signal S₁ is generated, and turns OFF the bypasssignal

.

[0253] If the repositioning-request signal S₁ is generated for apredetermined time x (e.g., 10 minutes), the position module 110increases the intensity of the repositioning-request signal S₁ by meansof the escalating demand feature 240 embedded within the position module110. The repositioning-request signal S₁ is generated at the increasedintensity thereafter until the infant simulator 05 is returned to anacceptable position.

[0254] Once the infant simulator 05 is returned to an acceptableposition, generation of the repositioning-request signal S₁ is turnedOFF, the occurrence of a repositioning-request episode is counted, theduration of time during which the infant simulator 05 was in anunacceptable position (i.e., the length of time therepositioning-request signal S₁ was generated) recorded by the recordingfeature 220, the repositioning-request episode timer is stopped andreset, the intensity of the repositioning-request signal S₁ is checkedand returned to normal if intensified, the bypass signal

is turned back ON, and the position module 110 is exited.

[0255] Temperature Module 120

[0256] The temperature sensor 40 measures the temperature of the infantsimulator 05 and signals the temperature module 120 when the temperaturefalls outside an acceptable temperature range (i.e., less than 15° C. orgreater than 35° C.).

[0257] Referring to FIG. 2c, the temperature module 120 is bypassed solong as the infant simulator 05 is kept at a temperature within theacceptable temperature range. However, when the temperature module 120receives a signal that the infant simulator 05 is being exposed to anunacceptable temperature, the temperature module 120 initiatesgeneration of the thermal exposure signal S₂ by means of the demandsignal generating feature 210 embedded within the temperature module120, starts timing the length of time the thermal exposure signal S₂ isgenerated, and turns OFF the bypass signal

.

[0258] If the thermal exposure signal S₂ is generated for apredetermined time x (e.g., 10 minutes), the temperature module 120increases the intensity of the thermal exposure signal S₂ by means ofthe escalating demand feature 240 embedded within the temperature module120. The thermal exposure signal S₂ is generated at the increasedintensity thereafter until the infant simulator 05 is returned to anacceptable temperature.

[0259] Once the infant simulator 05 is returned to an acceptabletemperature, generation of the thermal exposure signal S₂ is turned OFF,the occurrence of a thermal exposure episode is counted, the duration oftime during which the infant simulator 05 was exposed to unacceptabletemperatures (i.e., the length of time the thermal exposure signal S₂was generated) is recorded by the recording feature 220, the thermalexposure episode timer is stopped and reset, the intensity of thethermal exposure signal S₂ is checked and returned to normal ifintensified, the bypass signal

is turned back ON, and the temperature module 120 is exited.

[0260] Compression Module 130

[0261] As shown in FIG. 3, the compression sensing system 50 detects acompression of the doll's head 11. When compression is detected by thecompression sensing system 50, the compression sensing system 50 signalsthe compression module 130.

[0262] Referring to FIG. 2d, the compression module 130 is bypassed solong as the head 11 of the infant simulator 05 is not being squeezed orcompressed. However, when the compression module 130 receives a signalthat the head 11 of the infant simulator 05 is being compressed, thecompression module 130 initiates generation of the distress signal S₃ bymeans of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded within thecompression module 130, starts timing the length of time the distresssignal S₃ is generated, and turns OFF the bypass signal

.

[0263] If the duration of the compression, as measured by the length oftime the distress signal S₃ has been generated, exceeds a predeterminedtime value x (e.g., 10 seconds), the compression module 130 increasesthe intensity of the distress signal S₃ by means of the escalatingdemand feature 240 embedded within the compression module 130. Thedistress signal S₃ is generated at the increased intensity thereafteruntil some period of time after compression of the head 11 has ceased.

[0264] Once compression of the infant simulator 05 is ceased, thedistress signal S₃ continues for some period of time (e.g., 15 minutes)to simulate injury to the infant simulator 05. Thereafter, generation ofthe distress signal S₃ is turned OFF, the occurrence of a compressionepisode is counted by the recording feature 220, the compression timeris stopped and reset, the intensity of the distress signal S₃ is checkedand returned to normal if intensified, the bypass signal

is turned back ON, and the compression module 130 is exited.

[0265] Diaper-Change Module 140

[0266] The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically changes thesatisfaction signal St₄ requested by the diaper-change module 140, suchas by alternating between a first satisfaction signal St₄ ⁺ transmittedby a first diaper 60 a, and a second satisfaction signal St₄ ⁻transmitted by a second diaper 60 b.

[0267] The time intervals between sequential diaper-change episodes ispreferably selected so as to emulate the frequency of diaper changesrequired by an actual infant. By way of example, when the intervals area predetermined value, the intervals are preferably between about 20minutes and 6 hours, and when the intervals are bounded randomvariables, the intervals are preferably between a minimum of 1 to 2hours and a maximum of 4 to 6 hours, with a statistical preference for atime interval between approximately 2 and approximately 4 hours.

[0268] Referring to FIG. 2e, the diaper-change module 140 checks for thecurrently requested diaper-change satisfaction signal (e.g., St₄ ⁺). Thediaper-change module 140 is bypassed so long as the currently requesteddiaper-change satisfaction signal St₄ is communicated to thediaper-change module 140.

[0269] In the event that either the currently requested diaper-changesatisfaction signal St₄ is no longer received by the diaper-changemodule 140 (e.g., the first diaper 60 a transmitting the diaper-changesatisfaction signal St₄ ⁺ has been removed from the infant simulator05), or the central microcontroller unit 20 has changed the requesteddiaper-change satisfaction signal St₄ (e.g., the requested diaper-changesatisfaction signal has been changed from St₄ ⁺ to St₄ ⁻), thediaper-change module 140 initiates generation of a soiled-diaper signalS₄ by means of the demand signal generating feature 210 embedded withinthe diaper-change module 140, and starts timing the duration of thediaper-change episode by timing the length of time the soiled-diapersignal S₄ is generated.

[0270] In order to end a diaper-change episode before the timelimitation y has been reached, the diaper-change module 140 must receiveboth an identification signal S^(ID) (e.g., insertion of anidentification key 90 attached to the wrist of the assigned careprovider by means of a tamper indicating bracelet 91) and the currentlyrequested satisfaction signal (e.g., transmission of the diaper-changesatisfaction signal St₄ ⁻ by diapering the infant simulator 05 with thesecond diaper 60 b). For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2e, theidentification S^(ID) and diaper-change satisfaction signals St₄ may bereceived in any sequence and do not need to be transmittedsimultaneously.

[0271] As shown in FIG. 2e, the identification requirement is controlledby the identification system feature 250 embedded within thediaper-change module 140. The identification system feature 250 preventsexiting of the diaper-change module 140 by bypassing the satisfactionoption until the identification signal S^(ID) has been received and theidentification switch Sw^(ID) has been turned ON.

[0272] If the identification signal S^(ID) and the current diaper-changesatisfaction signal St₄ are not received within a given time limit x, asmeasured by the length of time the soiled-diaper signal S₄ has beengenerated, the diaper-change module 140 increases the intensity of thesoiled-diaper signal S₄ by means of the escalating demand feature 240embedded within the diaper-change module 140. The soiled-diaper signalS₄ is generated at the increased intensity for the remainder of thediaper-change episode (i.e., until the identification signal S^(ID) andthe current diaper-change satisfaction signal St₄ are received or thetime limitation y is reached).

[0273] Upon receiving the identification signal S^(ID) and the currentdiaper-change satisfaction signal St₄, the soiled-diaper signal S₄ isturned OFF, the occurrence of a diaper-change episode is counted and thelength of the diaper-change episode recorded by the recording feature220, the timer for timing the duration of the diaper-change episode isstopped and reset, the intensity of the distress signal S₃ is checkedand returned to normal if intensified, a contented signal+is generated(e.g., a soft “cooing” sound), the identification switch Sw^(ID) isturned back OFF, and the diaper-change module 140 is exited.

[0274] In the event that the identification signal S^(ID) and thecurrent diaper-change satisfaction signal St₄ are never received duringa diaper-change episode (i.e., the soiled-diaper signal S₄ is generateduntil time limitation y is reached), the soiled-diaper signal S₄ isturned OFF, the occurrence of a diaper-change episode is counted and thelength of the diaper-change episode recorded by the recording feature220, the timer for timing the duration of the diaper-change episode isstopped and reset, the intensity of the soiled-diaper signal S₄ ischecked and returned to normal if intensified, the identification switchSw^(ID) is turned back OFF, and the diaper-change module 140 is exited.The contented signal+is not generated when the diaper-change module 140is exited in this manner.

[0275] The time limitation y is employed for purposes of preventing thesoiled-diaper signal S₄ from being generated for the remainder of anassignment period in the event that the identification signal S^(ID) andthe current diaper-change satisfaction signal St₄ are never received bythe diaper-change module 140. This allows the program to continuecycling through the other modules and interact with a care provider forthe balance of the assignment period when an otherwise willing careprovider is unable to provider the diaper-change satisfaction signalSt₄, such as could result from a situation in which one of the diapers60 is misplaced during an assignment period or left at home whentraveling.

[0276] Rocking Module 150

[0277] The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences arocking period and communicates the commencement of a rocking period tothe rocking module 150. The central microcontroller unit 20 alsocontrols the duration of each rocking period by transmitting atermination signal to the rocking module 150 after the desired timeperiod has lapsed.

[0278] The time intervals between sequential rocking-request episodes ispreferably selected so as to emulate the frequency of requests forattention requested by an actual infant. By way of example, when theintervals are a predetermined value, the intervals are preferablybetween about 1 to 6 hours, and when the intervals are bounded randomvariables, the intervals are preferably between a minimum of 1 to 2hours and a maximum of 4 to 6 hours, with a statistical preference for atime interval between approximately 3 and approximately 5 hours.

[0279] Similarly, the duration of each rocking period is preferablyselected so as to emulate the length of time an actual infant wouldrequest attention. By way of example, when the duration of a rockingperiod is a predetermined value, the duration of each rocking period ispreferably between about 10 minutes to 1 hour, and when the duration ofa rocking period is a bounded random variable, the duration of eachrocking period is preferably between a minimum of about 2 minutes and amaximum of about 60, with a statistical preference for a durationbetween approximately 5 and 20 minutes.

[0280] Referring to FIG. 2f, the rocking module 150 is simply bypasseduntil the central microcontroller unit 20 starts a rocking period. Whenthe central microcontroller unit 20 starts a rocking period, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 transmits a rocking-request start signal to therocking module 150, a rocking-request episode is counted, and therocking-request episode commenced. The rocking module 150 then initiatesgeneration of the rocking-request signal S₅ by means of the demandsignal generating feature 210, and starts timing the duration of therocking-request episode by timing the length of time the rocking-requestsignal S₅ is generated.

[0281] In order to end a rocking-request episode before the entirerocking period has elapsed, the rocking module 150 must receive both anidentification signal S^(ID) (e.g., insertion of an identification key90 attached to the wrist of the assigned care provider by a tamperindicating bracelet 91) and a rocking-request satisfaction signal St₅(e.g., rocking of the infant simulator 05). For the embodiment depictedin FIG. 2f, the identification S^(ID) and rocking-request satisfactionSt₅ signals may be received in any sequence and do not need to betransmitted simultaneously. However, the rocking-request satisfactionsignal St₅ must be continuously received throughout the rocking periodto prevent initiation of a secondary rocking-request episode in whichthe rocking-request signal S₆ is turned back ON and the duration of thesupplemental rocking-request episode timed.

[0282] As shown in FIG. 2f, the identification requirement is controlledby the identification system feature 250 embedded within the rockingmodule 150. The identification system feature 250 prevents access to theepisode termination operations (i.e., turning OFF the rocking-requestsignal S₅ and terminating timing of the rocking-request episode) bybypassing the satisfaction option until the identification signal S^(ID)has been received and the identification switch Sw^(ID) has been turnedON.

[0283] If the identification signal S^(ID) and the rocking-requestsatisfaction signal St₅ are not received within a given time limit x, asmeasured by the length of time the rocking-request signal S₅ has beengenerated, the rocking module 150 increases the intensity of therocking-request signal S₅ by means of the escalating demand feature 240embedded within the rocking module 150. The rocking-request signal S₅ isgenerated at the increased intensity for the remainder of therocking-request episode (i.e., until the identification signal S^(ID)and the rocking-request satisfaction signal St₅ are received or the endof the rocking period is reached).

[0284] Upon receiving the identification S^(ID) and the rocking-requestsatisfaction St₅ signals, the rocking-request signal S₅ is turned OFF,the length of the rocking-request episode recorded by the recordingfeature 220, the timer for timing the duration of the rocking-requestepisode stopped and reset, the intensity of the rocking-request signalS₅ checked and returned to normal if intensified and the positive signalswitch turned ON unless already ON.

[0285] In contrast to the diaper-change module 140, the rocking module150 requires that the rocking-request satisfaction signal St₅ continueto be transmitted to the rocking module 150 for the entire duration ofthe rocking period. Failure to continuously provide the rocking-requestsatisfaction signal St₅ throughout the entire rocking period causes therocking module 150 to reinitiate generation of the rocking-requestsignal S₅, start timing the duration of the secondary rocking-requestepisode and turn the positive signal switch OFF.

[0286] In order to end a secondary rocking-request episode before theend of the rocking period, the rocking-request satisfaction signal St₅must once again be received by the rocking module 150. It is notnecessary to retransmit the identification signal S^(ID) as theidentification switch Sw^(ID) remains ON until the rocking period hasended, regardless of the status of the rocking-request satisfactionsignal St₅.

[0287] When the end of the rocking period is reached, the rocking module150 performs one of two different sets of operations depending upon thefinal status of the rocking-request satisfaction signal St₅. In thosecases where the rocking-request satisfaction signal St₅ was beingreceived by the rocking module 150 at the end of the rocking period, acontented signal+is generated (e.g., a soft “cooing” sound), theidentification switch Sw^(ID) is turned back OFF, and the rocking module150 is exited. In those cases where the rocking-request satisfactionsignal St₅ was not being received by the rocking module 150 at the endof the rocking period, including those cases where the rocking-requestsatisfaction signal St₅ was never received by the rocking module 150,the rocking-request signal S₅ is turned OFF, the length of therocking-request or supplemental rocking-request episode is recorded bythe recording feature 220, the timer for timing the duration of therocking-request episode is stopped and reset, the intensity of therocking-request signal S₅ is checked and returned to normal ifintensified, the identification switch Sw^(ID) is turned back OFF, andthe rocking module 150 is exited. The contented signal+is not generatedwhen the rocking module 150 is exited in the later manner.

[0288] Feeding Module 160

[0289] The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences afeeding period and communicates the commencement of a feeding period tothe feeding module 160. The central microcontroller unit 20 alsocontrols the duration of each feeding period by transmitting atermination signal to the feeding module 160 after the desired timeperiod has lapsed.

[0290] The time intervals between sequential feeding-request episodes ispreferably selected so as to emulate the frequency of feedings requiredby an actual infant. By way of example, when the intervals are apredetermined value, the intervals are preferably between about 1 to 6hours, and when the intervals are bounded random variables, theintervals are preferably between a minimum of 1 to 2 hours and a maximumof 4 to 6 hours, with a statistical preference for a time intervalbetween approximately 3 and approximately 5 hours.

[0291] Similarly, the duration of each feeding period is preferablyselected so as to emulate the length of time an actual infant would needto be feed. By way of example, when the duration of a feeding period isa predetermined value, the duration of each rocking period is preferablybetween about 5 to 20 minutes, and when the duration of a rocking periodis a bounded random variable, the duration of each rocking period ispreferably between a minimum of about 5 minutes and a maximum of about30, with a statistical preference for a duration between approximately10 and 20 minutes.

[0292] Referring to FIG. 2g, the feeding module 160 is simply bypasseduntil the central microcontroller unit 20 starts a feeding period. Whenthe central microcontroller unit 20 starts a feeding period, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 transmits a feeding-request start signal to thefeeding module 160, a feeding-request episode is counted, and thefeeding-request episode commenced. The feeding module 160 then initiatesgeneration of the feeding-request signal S₆ by means of the demandsignal generating feature 210, starts timing the duration of thefeeding-request episode by timing the length of time the feeding-requestsignal S₆ is generated, and turns the burp switch SW^(BURP) OFF unlessthe switch is already OFF.

[0293] In order to end a feeding-request episode before the entirefeeding period has elapsed, the feeding module 160 must receive both anidentification signal S^(ID) (e.g., insertion of an identification key90 attached to the wrist of the assigned care provider by a tamperindicating bracelet 91) and a feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆(e.g., insertion of a key marked “Feeding”). For the embodiment depictedin FIG. 2g, the identification S^(ID) and feeding-request satisfactionSt₆ signals may be received in any sequence and do not need to betransmitted simultaneously. However, the feeding-request satisfactionsignal St₆ must be continuously received throughout the feeding periodto prevent initiation of a secondary feeding-request episode in whichthe feeding-request signal S₆ is turned back ON, the duration of thesupplemental feeding-request episode timed, and the burp switchSw^(BURP) switched back to OFF.

[0294] As shown in FIG. 2g, the identification requirement is controlledby the identification system feature 250 embedded within the rockingmodule 150. The identification system feature 250 prevents access to theepisode termination operations (i.e., turning OFF the feeding-requestsignal S₆ and terminating timing of the feeding-request episode) bybypassing the satisfaction option until the identification signal S^(ID)has been received and the identification switch Sw^(ID) has been turnedON.

[0295] If the identification signal S^(ID) and the feeding-requestsatisfaction signal St₆ are not received within a given time limit x, asmeasured by the length of time the feeding-request signal S₆ has beengenerated, the feeding module 160 increases the intensity of thefeeding-request signal S₆ by means of the escalating demand feature 240embedded within the feeding module 160. The feeding-request signal S₆ isgenerated at the increased intensity for the remainder of thefeeding-request episode (i.e., until the identification signal S^(ID)and the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆ are received or the endof the feeding period is reached).

[0296] Upon receiving the identification S^(ID) and the feeding-requestsatisfaction St₆ signals, the feeding-request signal S₆ is turned OFF,the length of the feeding-request episode recorded by the recordingfeature 220, the timer for timing the duration of the feeding-requestepisode stopped and reset, the intensity of the feeding-request signalS₆ checked and returned to normal if intensified, and the burp switchSw^(BURP) turned ON.

[0297] As with the rocking module 150, the feeding module 160 requiresthat the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆ continue to betransmitted to the feeding module 160 for the entire duration of thefeeding period. Failure to continuously provide the feeding-requestsatisfaction signal St₆ throughout the entire feeding period causes thefeeding module 160 to reinitiate generation of the feeding-requestsignal S₆, and start timing the duration of the secondaryfeeding-request episode.

[0298] In order to end a secondary feeding-request episode before theend of the feeding period, the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆must once again be received by the feeding module 160. It is notnecessary to retransmit the identification signal S^(ID) as theidentification switch Sw^(ID) remains ON until the feeding period hasended, regardless of the status of the feeding-request satisfactionsignal St₆.

[0299] When the end of the feeding period is reached, the feeding module160 performs one of two different sets of operations depending upon thefinal status of the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆. In thosecases where the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆ was beingreceived by the feeding module 160 at the end of the feeding period, acontented signal+is generated (e.g., a soft “cooing” sound), theidentification switch Sw^(ID) is turned back OFF, and the feeding module160 is exited. In those cases where the feeding-request satisfactionsignal St₆ was not being received by the feeding module 160 at the endof the feeding period, including those cases where the feeding-requestsatisfaction signal St₆ was never received by the feeding module 160,the feeding-request signal S₆ is turned OFF, the length of thefeeding-request or supplemental feeding-request episode is recorded bythe recording feature 220, the timer for timing the duration of thefeeding-request episode is stopped and reset, the intensity of thefeeding-request signal S₆ is checked and returned to normal ifintensified, the identification switch Sw^(ID) is turned back OFF, andthe feeding module 160 is exited. The contented signal+is not generatedwhen the feeding module 160 is exited in the later manner.

[0300] Burping Module 170

[0301] A burping module 170 is sequentially positioned after the feedingmodule 160. During each feeding period, a burp switch Sw^(BURP) isturned ON when the identification signal S^(ID) and feeding-requestsatisfaction St₆ signals are received. The burp switch Sw^(BURP) remainsON so long as the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆ iscontinuously received by the feeding module 160 during the feedingperiod. In the event that the identification signal S^(ID) andfeeding-request satisfaction St₆ signals are never received by thefeeding module 160, or the feeding-request satisfaction signal St₆ isinterrupted and is not being received by the feeding module 160 when thefeeding period ends, the burp switch SW^(BURP) is turned OFF.

[0302] Burping-request periods can be initiated immediately after theend of a satisfied feeding period or after a defined delay timed fromthe end of a satisfied feeding period. When a delay is provided betweenthe end of a satisfied feeding period and the initiation of a burpingperiod, the length of the delay is preferably selected so as to emulatethe burping needs of an actual infant. By way of example, when thedelays are a predetermined value, the delays are preferably betweenabout 0 to 30 minutes, and when the delays are bounded random variables,the delays are preferably between about 0 to 30 minutes, with astatistical preference for delays of between approximately 2 and 10minutes.

[0303] Similarly, the duration of each burping period is preferablyselected so as to emulate the length of time an actual infant would needto be burped. By way of example, when the duration of a burping periodis a predetermined value, the duration of each burping period ispreferably between about 2 to 60 minutes, and when the duration of aburping period is a bounded random variable, the duration of eachburping period is preferably between about 2 to 60 minutes with astatistical preference for a duration of between approximately 5 and 20minutes.

[0304] Referring to FIG. 2h, the burping module 170 is bypassed when theburping switch Sw^(BURB) is OFF (i.e., the infant simulator 05 does notwant to be burped when the infant simulator 05 was not properly feed).However, when the burping switch SW^(BURP) is ON, a burping-requestepisode is commenced and counted, and the burping switch SW^(BURP)switched OFF. The burping module 170 then initiates generation of theburping-request signal S₇ by means of the demand signal generatingfeature 210 embedded within the burping module 170 and starts timing theduration of the burping-request episode by timing the length of time theburping-request signal S₇ is generated.

[0305] As with the rocking period and the feeding period, the centralmicrocontroller unit 20 controls the duration of each burping period bytransmitting a termination signal to the burping module 170 after thedesired time period has lapsed.

[0306] In order to end a burping-request episode before the entireburping period has elapsed, the burping module 170 must receive both anidentification signal S^(ID) (e.g., insertion of an identification key90 attached to the wrist of the assigned care provider by a tamperindicating bracelet 91) and a burping-request satisfaction signal St₇(e.g., patting of the infant simulator 05). For the embodiment depictedin FIG. 2h, the identification S^(ID) and burping-request satisfactionSt₇ signals may be received in any sequence and do not need to betransmitted simultaneously. However, the burping-request satisfactionsignal St₇ must be continuously received throughout the burping periodto prevent initiation of a secondary burping-request episode in whichthe burping-request signal S₇ is turned back ON and the duration of thesupplemental burping-request episode timed.

[0307] As shown in FIG. 2h, the identification requirement is controlledby the identification system feature 250 embedded within the burpingmodule 170. The identification system feature 250 prevents access to theepisode termination operations (i.e., turning OFF the burping-requestsignal S₇ and terminating timing of the burping-request episode) bybypassing the satisfaction option until the identification signal S^(ID)has been received and the identification switch Sw^(ID) has been turnedON.

[0308] If the identification signal S^(ID) and the burping-requestsatisfaction signal St₇ are not received within a given time limit x, asmeasured by the length of time the burping-request signal S₇ has beengenerated, the burping module 170 increases the intensity of theburping-request signal S₇ by means of the escalating demand feature 240embedded within the burping module 170. The burping-request signal S₇ isgenerated at the increased intensity for the remainder of theburping-request episode (i.e., until the identification signal S^(ID)and the burping-request satisfaction signal St₇ are received or the endof the burping period is reached).

[0309] Upon receiving the identification S^(ID a)nd the burping-requestsatisfaction St₇ signals, the burping-request signal S₇ is turned OFF,the length of the burping-request episode recorded by the recordingfeature 220, the timer for timing the duration of the burping-requestepisode stopped and reset, and the intensity of the burping-requestsignal S₇ checked and returned to normal if intensified.

[0310] As with the rocking module 150 and the feeding module 160 theburping module 170 requires that the burping-request satisfaction signalSt₇ continue to be transmitted to the burping module 170 for the entireduration of the burping period. Failure to continuously provide theburping-request satisfaction signal St₇ throughout the entire burpingperiod causes the burping module 170 to reinitiate generation of theburping-request signal S₇, and start timing the duration of thesecondary burping-request episode.

[0311] In order to end a secondary burping-request episode before theend of the burping period, the burping-request satisfaction signal St₇must once again be received by the burping module 170. It is notnecessary to retransmit the identification signal S^(ID) as theidentification switch Sw^(ID) remains ON until the burping period hasended, regardless of the status of the burping-request satisfactionsignal St₇.

[0312] When the end of the burping period is reached, the burping module170 performs one of two different sets of operations depending upon thefinal status of the burping-request satisfaction signal St₇. In thosecases where the burping-request satisfaction signal St₇ was beingreceived by the burping module 170 at the end of the burping period, acontented signal+is generated (e.g., a soft “cooing” sound), theidentification switch Sw^(ID) is turned back OFF, and the burping module170 is exited. In those cases where the burping-request satisfactionsignal St₇ was not being received by the burping module 170 at the endof the burping period, including those cases where the burping-requestsatisfaction signal St₇ was never received by the burping module 170,the burping-request signal S₇ is turned OFF, the length of theburping-request or supplemental burping-request episode is recorded bythe recording feature 220,.the timer for timing the duration of theburping-request episode is stopped and reset, the intensity of theburping-request signal S₇ is checked and returned to normal ifintensified, the identification switch Sw^(ID) is turned back OFF, andthe burping module 170 is exited. The contented signal+is not generatedwhen the burping module 170 is exited in the later manner.

[0313] Fussy Module 180

[0314] The central microcontroller unit 20 periodically commences afussy period and communicates the commencement of a fussy period to thefussy module 180. The program also controls the duration of each fussyperiod by transmitting a termination signal to the fussy module 180after the desired time period has lapsed.

[0315] The duration of each fussy period is preferably selected so as toemulate the length of time an actual infant would tend to fuss. By wayof example, when the duration of a fussy period is a predeterminedvalue, the duration of fussy period is preferably between about 5 to 20minutes, and when the duration of a fussy period is a bounded randomvariable, the duration of each fussy period is preferably between about2 to 60 minutes with a statistical preference for a duration of about 5to 20 minutes.

[0316] Referring to FIG. 2i, the fussy module 180 is simply bypasseduntil the central microcontroller unit 20 commences a fussy period. Whenthe central microcontroller unit 20 commences a fussy period, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 transmits a fussy start signal to thefussy module 180, and a fussy episode is commenced. The fussy module 180then initiates generation of the fussy signal S₈ by means of the demandsignal generating feature 210 embedded within the fussy module 180.

[0317] In contrast to the other episodic modules (i.e., thediaper-change module 140, the rocking module 150, the feeding module 160and the burping module 170) a fussy episode cannot be ended until theentire fussy period has run. Hence, the fussy signal S₈ will begenerated throughout a fussy period regardless of the actions taken bythe care provider. The fussy module 180 emulates those times when,despite every effort by a care provider, an infant cannot be satisfiedand continues to fuss. Since the fussy episode cannot be satisfied, thefussy module 180 does not include the recording 220, contented signal230, escalating demand 240 or identification 250 features embeddedwithin the other modules.

[0318] When the end of the fussy period is reached, the fussy signal S8is turned OFF and the fussy module 180 is exited. A contented signal+isnot generated.

[0319] Assignment Period Module 190

[0320] The infant simulator 05 initiates timing of the assignment periodupon activation. The duration of the assignment period can either becontinuous (i.e., continuing until a teacher or other programadministrator takes custody of the infant simulator 05 and stops theassignment period), or predetermined (i.e., a preset duration of 6, 8,24, 36, 48 or 72 hours selected by the teacher or other programadministrator at the beginning of the assignment period.

[0321] When the assignment period is a predetermined time period, thecentral microcontroller unit 20 is preprogrammed with a definedassignment period. The assignment period module 190 compares the lengthof time the infant simulator 05 has been activated against the durationof the defined assignment period, and causes the program to continuecycling through the various modules until the length of time the infantsimulator 05 has been activated equals or exceeds the duration of thedefined assignment period. Once the activation period equals or exceedsthe assignment period, the program is ended.

I claim:
 1. An infant simulator, comprising: (a) a doll; (b) arocking-request system within the doll for periodically effectingrocking-request episodes, including at least: (i) a means for generatinga perceptible rocking-request signal; and (ii) a means in communicationwith the rocking-request signal generating means for detecting rockingof the doll and arresting the rocking-request signal when rocking isdetected.
 2. The infant simulator of claim 1 further comprising arocking-request interval timer in communication with the rocking-requestsignal generating means for initiating generation of the rocking-requestsignal at intervals.
 3. The infant simulator of claim 1 furthercomprising a care-provider identification system within the doll,including at least (i) a means for receiving an identification signal,and (ii) a means in communication with the identification-signalreceiving means and the rocking-request system effective for preventingarresting of the rocking-request signal until the identification signalis received by the identification-signal receiving means.
 4. The infantsimulator of claim 3 wherein the care-provider identification systemincludes a voice recognition system.
 5. The infant simulator of claim 3wherein the care-provider identification system includes a fingerprintrecognition system.
 6. The infant simulator of claim 3 wherein theidentification-signal receiving means comprises a keyhole effective fortransmitting the identification signal upon insertion of anidentification key.
 7. The infant simulator of claim 6 furthercomprising an identification key effective for transmitting theidentification signal when inserted into the keyhole, wherein theidentification key includes a means for attaching the identification keyto a selected care-provider and a means for indicating detachment of theidentification key from the selected care-provider.
 8. The infantsimulator of claim 1 further comprising a means effective for measuringand recording the duration of the rocking-request episode.
 9. The infantsimulator of claim 1 further comprising a means effective for measuringand recording the sum total of the duration of all rocking-requestepisodes occurring within an assignment period.
 10. The infant simulatorof claim 1 further comprising a means effective for measuring andseparately recording the duration of each and every rocking-requestepisode occurring within an assignment period.
 11. The infant simulatorof claim 1 further comprising a means in communication with therocking-request signal generating means for escalating the intensity ofthe rocking-request signal as the duration of the rocking-requestepisode increases.
 12. The infant simulator of claim 11 wherein therocking-request signal intensity-escalating means is effective forescalating the intensity of the rocking-request signal to at least twohigher intensity rocking-request signals.
 13. The infant simulator ofclaim 1 wherein the infant simulator has an approximate shape and weightof an infant.
 14. The infant simulator of claim 1 further comprising anenergy source retained within the doll for supplying the energyrequirements of the infant simulator, and a means for indicating thatthe energy source has been accessed.
 15. The infant simulator of claim 1wherein the perceptible rocking-request signal is expressed as a signalselected from the group consisting of an audible cry, an audiblewhimper, fidgeting, and a combination thereof.
 16. The infant simulatorof claim 1 wherein the rocking-request signal arresting means is onlyeffective for inhibiting the rocking-request signal so long as rockingis continuously detected, and the infant simulator further comprises arocking-request duration timer in communication with the rocking-requestsignal generating means for terminating generation of therocking-request signal at the end of a rocking period.
 17. The infantsimulator of claim 16 wherein the duration of the rocking period is arandom variable lasting for a time period falling within a predeterminedtime range.
 18. The infant simulator of claim 16 wherein the duration ofthe rocking period is a predetermined value.
 19. The infant simulator ofclaim 17 further comprising a means for adjusting the potential durationof a rocking period at the beginning of an assignment period.
 20. Theinfant simulator of claim 19 wherein the rocking period durationadjusting means is effective for adjusting the rocking period durationto one of at least three duration options of short duration, averageduration and long duration, whereby the infant simulator can beprogrammed to simulate the relative care requirements of an easy infant,an average infant and a difficult infant.
 21. The infant simulator ofclaim 18 further comprising a means for adjusting the duration of therocking period at the beginning of an assignment period.
 22. The infantsimulator of claim 21 wherein the rocking period duration adjustmentmeans is effective for adjusting the rocking period duration to one ofat least three duration options of short duration, average duration andlong duration, whereby the infant simulator can be programmed tosimulate the relative care requirements of an easy infant, an averageinfant and a difficult infant.
 23. The infant simulator of claim 17wherein the duration of the rocking period is between 2 and 60 minutes,with a statistical preference for a rocking period of between 5 and 20minutes.
 24. The infant simulator of claim 1 wherein the time intervalbetween the generation of sequential rocking-request signals is a randomvariable occurring within a predetermined time range.
 25. The infantsimulator of claim 1 wherein the time interval between the generation ofsequential rocking-request signals is a predetermined value.
 26. Theinfant simulator of claim 24 further comprising a means for adjustingthe potential duration of the time interval between the generation ofsequential rocking-request signals at the beginning of an assignmentperiod, whereby the potential number of rocking-request signalsgenerated by the rocking-request system during an assignment period iscorrespondingly increased or decreased.
 27. The infant simulator ofclaim 26 wherein the rocking-request interval duration-adjustment meansis effective for adjusting the time interval between the generation ofsequential rocking-request signals to one of at least three timeinterval options of short duration, average duration and long duration,whereby the infant simulator can be programmed to simulate the relativecare requirements of an easy infant, an average infant and a difficultinfant.
 28. The infant simulator of claim 25 further comprising a meansfor adjusting the duration of the time interval between the generationof sequential rocking-request signals at the beginning of an assignmentperiod, whereby the number of rocking-request signals generated by therocking-request system during an assignment period is correspondinglyincreased or decreased.
 29. The infant simulator of claim 28 wherein therocking-request time interval-duration adjustment means is effective foradjusting time interval between the generation of sequentialrocking-request signals to one of at least three time interval optionsof short duration, average duration and long duration, whereby theinfant simulator can be programmed to simulate the relative carerequirements of an easy infant, an average infant and a difficultinfant.
 30. The infant simulator of claim 1 wherein the time intervalbetween the generation of sequential rocking-request signals is between1 and 6 hours.
 31. The infant simulator of claim 24 wherein the timeinterval between the generation of sequential rocking-request signals isbetween a minimum of 1 to 2 hours and a maximum of 4 to 6 hours.
 32. Theinfant simulator of claim 30 wherein the time interval between thegeneration of sequential rocking-request signals varies from timeinterval to time interval.
 33. The infant simulator of claim 1 whereinthe rocking detection means is a motion sensor within the doll.
 34. Theinfant simulator of claim 16 wherein the rocking-request system isconfigured and arranged to inhibit generation of the rocking-requestsignal only when accelerations of less than a predetermined value aredetected, whereby abusive treatment of the infant simulator does notinhibit generation of the rocking-request signal.